Early Explorations In Mathematics And Science

This book presents teachers with a sound theoretical framework for encouraging children to explore mathematical concepts and become numerate in the 21st century. It shows that mathematical learning can occur in a variety of ways, including when children explore ideas through play, problem solving and problem posing, engage in a rich variety of multimodal learning experiences, pursue self-directed activities and cooperate with others, and make connections between ideas and experiences in their everyday worlds. - Back cover

How do young children learn math and science? Exploring Science and Mathematics in a Child's World examines the development of learning theory through twelve concept explorations on basic natural science themes. The book models how best learning practices are constructed in classroom settings. It also demonstrates how to apply mathematical concepts in authentic minds-on and hands-on experiences related to science. Part One lays the foundation of child development, interrelated mathematics and science processes, and Concept Exploration design. Concept Exploration provides an alternative approach to the usual reliance on a basis model, enabling the teacher and students to explore a wider range of design concepts. This is outlined in Chapter Six. Part Two contains chapters of activities based around a theme such as water, clouds, sun and shadows, wind, birds, insects, and more. All of the activities correlate to the NSES and NCTM standards. This is pictured in a chart at the beginning of each activity chapter for easy reference. For schools where blended math and science courses are offered, this book fills a need as one that demonstrates appropriate content integration and will be a great reference for teachers for many years.

Reviewers’ comments on the first edition: “Jane Johnston communicates a sense of effervescent enthusiasm for teaching and science, and her treatment is comprehensive.†TES “The ideas and recommendations, based on considerable classroom experience, make this book a valuable aid to students and reflective early years practitioners.†Primary Science Review “At last! A serious attempt to explore the scientific potential of infant and pre-school children… The author explains how scientific skills can be developed at an early stage, stimulating the natural inquisitive streak in children. This book…will start you thinking about science in a much more positive light.†Child Education This accessible and practical book supports good scientific practice in the early years. It helps practitioners to be creative providers, and shows them how to develop awe and wonder of the world in the children they teach. The book highlights the importance of a motivating learning environment and skilled interaction with well-trained adults. In addition, fundamental issues are explored such as the range, nature and philosophical underpinning of early years experiences and the development of emergent scientific skills, understandings and attitudes. New features for this edition include: An extended age range encompassing early learning from 0 – 8 Updated material for the Foundation Stage Curriculum for 3 – 5-year-olds and the National Curriculum 2000 for 5 – 8-year-olds A new chapter focusing on conceptual understanding and thinking skills in the early years An emphasis on the importance of informal learning and play in early development The book introduces and discusses new research and thinking in early years and science education throughout, making it relevant for current practice. This is an indispensable resource for all trainee and practising primary school teachers and early years practitioners.

Handbook meant to assist teachers in using GEMS/PEACHES teacher's guides in schools and child care centers.

The book tries to explain the Finnish teacher education and school system as well as Finnish children’s learning environment at the level of the comprehensive school, and thus give explanations for the Finnish PISA success. The book is a joint enterprise of Finnish teacher educators.