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.
Exploring Science and Mathematics in a Child’s World provides a cohesive discussion of how to make learning science and mathematics both valuable and enjoyable for young children. Part I chapters are foundational and help students understand child development, interrelated mathematics and science processes, and Concept Exploration design. Part II activity chapters uniquely help students gain a solid understanding of scientific topics, while they learn how to implement activities with children using constructivist and inquiry-based methods.
· Blend of Science and Math Topics. This new text integrates science and math across the early childhood curriculum. It offers more mathematics coverage than other science activities texts. Entire chapters are devoted to measurement, problem solving, and organizing and representing data.
· More than 100 Concept Exploration Activities. Each Concept Exploration provides an overview of content knowledge for the preservice teacher, with an average of ten activities, resources for integration, safety tips, and more. The activities offer an effective way to engage children’s curiosities about topics such as clouds, light and sound, and birds, while also assessing each child’s learning experience.
· Integration of NSES and NCTM Standards. To familiarize students with the national standards for science and mathematics, each activity is correlated to these standards in a chart appearing at the beginning of the chapter.
