Understanding Mathematics in the Lower Primary Years Book

This is a substantially revised and expanded edition of the authors' earlier book, Understanding Early Years Mathematics. It is written for teachers and student-teachers working with children aged 4-8. It aims to provide them with a clearer understanding of the mathematical material they deal with in the classroom. To develop this understanding, the book examines fundamental mathematical ideas such as number and number-operations, division, transformation and equivalence, comparison and measurement, pattern and generalizations and concepts associated with shape and space. Particular attention is given to the use of symbols in mathematics and the importance of networks of connections between symbols, concrete experience, language and pictures. This revised edition includes new chapters on number patterns and calculations, data handling, and the characteristic ways of thinking mathematically that are at the heart of using and applying mathematics. Each chapter includes a section of activities for use with children; annotated suggestions for further reading and a summary of key ideas.This book is for all teachers and student-teachers of children aged 4-8. For teachers in England and Wales the book provides comprehensive coverage of the mathematical ideas underlying the programmes of study for KS1 and the first year or two of KS2.Read More