Numeracy
Table 3 shows the levels of difficulty of numeracy proficiency.
Table 3. Numeracy levels of difficulty
| Level |
Score |
Task |
| 1 |
0 - 225 |
Understand basic math such as counting, sorting |
| 2 |
226 - 275 |
Identify and understand basic math concepts and estimations involving
percents, fractions, simple measurements |
| 3 |
276 - 325 |
Understand math information shown in symbols, maps, graphs and drawings;
able to interpret proportions, data and statistics in text with distractors |
| 4 |
326 - 375 |
Understand abstract math information from complex texts; use multiple
steps to find solutions to problems requiring complex reasoning and interpretation
skills such as working with formulas |
| 5 |
376 - 500 |
Understand complex representations, abstract and formal math and statistical
ideas |
The easiest task with a score of 174 required counting the number of pop bottles
shown in a photograph.
The most difficult task with a score of 380 required entering text information
as variables in a formula, conducting calculations and comparing the result
to an expected amount. The task was rated as the most difficult because it involved
percentages, calculations with or without a formula, integration of several
steps and several types of operations. It also required knowledge and skills
in formal mathematical information and greater comprehension of non-routine
calculations that are not usually part of normal everyday routines.