ABSTRACT
It was not until the publication of the Cockcroft Report, in 1982, that it was given its current meaning. This report recommended that the word ‘numerate’ should imply the possession of two attributes:
1 an ability to make use of mathematical skills, which enables an individual to cope with the practical mathematical demands of his or her everyday life;
2 an ability to have some appreciation and understanding of information which is presented in mathematical terms, for instance charts, tables and graphs.
