Two forms of mathematics will be offered at senior schools, one for those taking the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) pathway and another for those taking arts, sports, and social sciences.
According to the chairman of the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD), Professor Simon Gicharu, those taking the STEM pathway will pursue core mathematics, while those taking arts and sports and social sciences will undertake essential mathematics.
Gicharu, who on Saturday led alumni of Murang'a high school in a visit to the students, said essential mathematics in senior school will play a pivotal role in developing the learner's computational abilities as well as critical thinking and problem-solving skills. "Initially, mathematics was not to be compulsory in senior schools but after stakeholders called for the subject to be included among compulsory subjects, KICD factored mathematics and designed it into two forms," said the Chairman.
He said mathematics specifically focuses on numbers and algebra as a foundation for the course in developing numerical and algebraic thinking. "It also includes measurements of different quantities, particularly commercial arithmetic which is important for acquisition and application of financial literacy in real life," noted Gicharu who is also founder of Mount Kenya University.
