• Literacy involves understanding mathematical principles (such as change, function, and quantitative relationships), developing mathematical ways of thinking, and developing fluency with number, geometry, and data. • Students develop this literacy by actively doing mathematics—using their
supporting children in making mathematical marks as part of developing their abilities to extend and organise their mathematical thinking.’ One of the recommendations of the Williams Review is to commission a set of professional development materials to support practitioners in their understanding of young children’s mathematical mark making
mathematical models as a means to help children develop such number sense. These models – e.g., the number line, the rekenrek, the ratio table, etc. – are instrumental in helping children develop structures – or ways of seeing – mathematical concepts. This textbook series has been designed to introduce some of these models to teachers
that the mathematics education of young children extends beyond the walls of the classroom: family and the wider community can make a significant contribution to children’s mathematical achievement (e.g., Sheldon & Epstein, 2005). Pedagogy It is impossible to think about good mathematics pedagogy for children aged 3–8 years without
about height took place, showing young children’s growing mathematical awareness. The children helped choose the photo and decide the caption. Example 2: A webbing format This web type template means that you can jot down simple ideas as they happen. Later, you can reflect and discuss how to support this interest further, as well as adding a few
These mathematical concepts can easily be incorporated into any pre-k curriculum and fit easily into a science or social studies unit. Most children can apply these concepts easily and accurately if they are introduced to the practical applications at an early age. Science Young children have a natural curiosity about scientific information.
answers as opportunities to improve and deepen children’s understanding of mathematical concepts. The experiences and outcomes encourage learning and teaching approaches that challenge and stimulate children and young people and promote their enjoyment of mathematics. To achieve this, teachers will use a skilful mix of approaches, including:
mathematical mark making and children’s mathematical development to be used to support Early Years practitioners’ professional development. The review emphasised that although ‘the EYFS provides guidance on developing mathematical understanding through imaginative play…opportunities in this area seem to be missed.’
child relationship but also stimulate children’s cognitive and linguistic development.24 Having books at home and reading and talking to children—even very young infants—influences children’s development of language and literacy skills.3, 26 Children whose parents talked to them frequently and used a variety of words when
‘enhancing children’s mathematical understanding through making links to other areas of learning and wider issues of interest and importance’ (DCSF/QCDA, 2010b, Mathematical Understanding, Programme of Study, section 3). Cross-curricular stud-ies will inevitably draw on and develop mathematical skills, for example, in organ-