“Mathematics is more than completing sets of exercises or
mimicking processes. Doing mathematics means generating strategies for solving
problems, applying those approaches and checking to see if the answers make
sense.”
Mathematics and Science go hand-in-hand. While Science is a
process of figuring out or making sense, mathematics is the science of concepts
and processes that have a pattern of regularity and logical order. It is about
finding and exploring the regularity or order and making sense of it.
As an educator of young children, I live by the theories of
Jean Piaget and Lev Vygotsky. Both constructivism and sociocultural theories
are essential tools when teaching young children. With the theories locked in,
another important factor to consider will be ‘The Classroom Environment for
Doing Mathematics.’ It is important to note that creating this classroom
takes a conscious effort and it is also my personal belief that it comes with
experience. With that said, the classroom should provide for:
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persistence, effort and
concentration
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a place where students can share
their ideas
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a place where students listen to
each other
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a place where errors or strategies
that did not work are opportunities for learning
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a place for students to look for and discuss connections.
I am really excited to start this module and learn more
about how I can teach mathematics and make it fun and meaningful for children.
See you in the next entry!
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