Science, maths and reading literacy achievement at age 15

Note: The data and text for this section is sourced in whole or in part from the following report: Ministry of Social Development (2008), Children and Young People: Indicators of Wellbeing in New Zealand 2008.  Wellington: Ministry of Social Development.

Definition

Mean scores for 15 year old students in scientific, mathematical and reading literacy, as reported by the 2006 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA).

Relevance

The ability to understand and interpret information and apply knowledge to real world challenges in the areas of language, mathematics and science are critical skills that provide useful preparation for post-school life.

Core literacy and numeracy skills are required in a range of everyday situations.  Such skills support full participation in society, enhance job opportunities and contribute to workplace productivity. 

Current level and trends

In 2006 the combined mean reading literacy score for 15 year old students was 521, significantly higher than the OECD mean of 492. 

This is comparable to our results in 2000 (529, compared to an OECD average of 500).  In 2006 New Zealand had one of the widest ranges of reading literacy scores of any OECD country, indicating we have a comparatively high level of disparity between high and low achievers. (1)

The mean score in mathematical literacy was 522, compared with an OECD average of 498. 

This is comparable to our results in 2003.  The spread of achievement was similar to the OECD average. (2)

The mean score in scientific literacy was 530, compared with an OECD average of 500. 

As with reading literacy, in 2006 New Zealand had one of the widest ranges of science literacy scores of any OECD country.  Comparisons with earlier years are not possible because of changes in the way scientific literacy is measured.

PISA mean scores for reading, mathematical and science literacy, New Zealand and OECD mean, 2006

PISA mean scores for reading, mathematical and science literacy, New Zealand and OECD mean, 2006

Source: PISA 2006.

Notes

1. The range here is defined as the number of points between the 5th and 95th percentiles.  In the case of New Zealand, this range was 344 for reading literacy, 306 for mathematical literacy, and 352 for science literacy.

2. 2000 PISA test results for mathematical literacy are not comparable with 2006 results.