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Mamokgethi Phakeng: mathematician and university leader (Level A1) — a building with a mountain in the background

Mamokgethi Phakeng: mathematician and university leaderCEFR A1

10 Jan 2022

Level A1 – Beginner
2 min
85 words
  • Mamokgethi Phakeng is a South African mathematician and leader.
  • She is vice-chancellor of the University of Cape Town.
  • She received national and international recognition for maths work.
  • She won the Order of the Baobab award.
  • Her interest in mathematics started at school.
  • Her parents encouraged hard work and learning at home.
  • She began teaching in rural farm schools.
  • She advises young people to practise maths every day.
  • She says maths builds logical thinking and career choices.
  • She shows mathematics can fit many personal identities.

Difficult words

  • mathematiciana person who studies and works with numbers
  • vice-chancellorthe main leader of a university
  • recognitionpublic praise or official honour for work
  • ruralrelated to the countryside or farms
  • encourageto give support or make someone try
    encouraged
  • practiseto do something again and again to improve

Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.

Discussion questions

  • Do you like maths?
  • How often do you practise maths?
  • Would you like to teach in a rural school?

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