D.Ed. / The study focused on the placement of Grade 10 learners in either Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy. The purpose was to develop guidelines to assist Grade 10 learners to make a proper choice, which would render their placement more justifiable and objective and, in turn, enhance their results. A central theme of the National Curriculum Statement (NCS) is the importance that secondary schools will shape learners to become responsible citizens in a fast-developing, scientific and technological society. South Africa has an urgent need for more scientists, engineers, high-level economists and technicians, which can only be satisfied if learners with potential for science-related studies are identified. Due to the fact that learners need skills to interact critically with the world outside the school environment, more learners should be encouraged to take Mathematics. A good foundation of Mathematics and Mathematical Literacy necessitates the development of guidelines to add value to assessment. Therefore, this study examined the nature of Mathematics and Mathematical Literacy, the historical background of Mathematics education in South Africa, constructivism and its approaches to learning and teaching, as well as cognitive and non-cognitive factors associated with achievement and general test evaluations. A pragmatic philosophy was followed. National Curriculum Statement (NCS) documents were analysed to distinguish between Mathematics and Mathematical Literacy in terms of subject content. Qualitative and quantitative information was collected by means of interviews and questionnaires respectively.The analyses of the NCS documents showed content similarities and differences between Mathematics and Mathematical Literacy and identified the gaps in learners’ learning experiences that could contribute to non-achievement in either subject.