Cultivating Number Sense: An Analysis of the Impact of Mother Tongue-Based on Numeracy Skills in Primary Grade Pupils

Abstract: 

This study examines the impact of Mother Tongue-Based Multilingual Education (MTB-MLE)  on the numeracy skills of primary grade pupils. Through a systematic literature review and  meta-analysis, the study explores four key themes: the enhancement of numeracy skills through  language integration, the importance of cultural relevance and cognitive engagement, the  significance of contextual adaptation for optimal impact, and the practical implications for  educational policies and practices. The findings underscore the positive influence of MTB-MLE on students' numeracy proficiency, emphasizing its role in fostering a deeper conceptual  understanding of mathematical principles and promoting a more inclusive and culturally  sensitive learning environment. The study advocates for the integration of the mother tongue  in numeracy education as a means of providing a more equitable and effective learning  experience for students from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. By emphasizing the  importance of culturally relevant curriculum materials, teacher training programs, and policy  frameworks, this research contributes to the ongoing discourse on promoting inclusive and  holistic educational approaches for primary grade pupils. 

Keywords: Mother Tongue-Based Multilingual Education (MTB-MLE), Numeracy skills,  Primary education, Language integration, Cultural relevance