Which IEA assessment focuses explicitly on mathematics literacy at the primary level?

The assessment that focuses explicitly on mathematics literacy at the primary level is the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS). TIMSS is designed to measure the mathematics and science knowledge of students in fourth and eighth grades. The survey provides insights into how well students understand mathematical concepts and their ability to apply them in various contexts, particularly at the primary level.

TIMSS is specifically structured to evaluate curricula and instructional practices in different countries, which helps to identify factors that contribute to students' mathematics performance. It provides valuable data on trends in mathematics education over time and across various education systems worldwide.

Other assessments, such as PISA, NAEP, and ICCS, focus on different educational metrics or age groups. For instance, PISA assesses 15-year-olds and includes various subjects, including mathematics literacy. NAEP is a U.S.-based assessment that evaluates students at various grades but does not focus solely on primary mathematics literacy. ICCS centers around civic education rather than mathematics or science. Thus, TIMSS stands out as the primary assessment explicitly aimed at mathematics literacy for younger students.