According to National Curriculum Framework 2005, which among the following is/are appropriate as a part of higher aims of teaching mathematics ?
(A) Developing numeracy skills
(B) Developing ability to handle abstractions in mathematics
(C) Developing right attitude for problem solving
Choose the correct option.

Correct option is C

The National Curriculum Framework (NCF) 2005 emphasizes the holistic development of students through various cognitive skills, including those in mathematics. In the context of the higher aims of teaching mathematics, the NCF outlines several key objectives:

1. Developing numeracy skills (A): The NCF acknowledges the importance of foundational skills, including numeracy, as an essential goal in the early stages of education. However, this is typically considered a primary aim rather than a higher-level objective.

2. Developing ability to handle abstractions in mathematics (B): The NCF highlights the importance of developing the ability to think abstractly. Understanding abstract concepts and handling mathematical abstractions is indeed considered a higher-order aim in the study of mathematics. It encourages students to go beyond concrete operations to engage with abstract mathematical structures.

3. Developing right attitude for problem solving (C): The NCF stresses the need to foster a problem-solving attitude, which includes developing critical thinking, logical reasoning, and persistence. This is a higher aim as it prepares students for real-world problem-solving scenarios and creative mathematical thinking.

Hence, the correct answer is (a) (B) and (C).

Information Booster:

• Numeracy skills (A) are foundational, primarily focusing on arithmetic and basic operations. While important, they are not considered higher-level aims in the NCF framework.
• Handling abstractions (B) is a crucial aspect of mathematical maturity and is emphasized in the NCF for its role in deepening understanding of advanced mathematical concepts.
• Problem-solving attitude (C) is a higher aim because it not only involves the application of mathematical knowledge but also encourages creativity, reasoning, and critical thinking, which are essential for success in mathematics.

Additional Information:

• The NCF 2005 recommends a shift from rote learning to a more engaging, thought-provoking approach to mathematics. This includes fostering a problem-solving attitude and the ability to reason abstractly.
• Option (a) (B) and (C): Both handling abstractions and developing the right attitude for problem solving are indeed part of the higher aims, as they focus on advanced cognitive skills.
• Option (b) (A) and (C): While numeracy skills are foundational, they are not emphasized as higher aims in the context of the NCF.
• Option (c) (A) and (B): Numeracy is important but doesn't meet the "higher" aims criterion as effectively as problem-solving skills and abstraction handling.