Best Practices - Primary

In addition to the recommendations for Best Practices in Mathematics, the following concepts are particularly important for Primary Age Students (Kindergarten - grade 2):

Provide Active Learning

Children in the early primary grades learn best through active, engaged, meaningful experiences. Through sensory experiences and concrete learning activities, young children construct their own knowledge by interacting with their environments and others. (See Position paper: Early Childhood Mathematics: Promoting Good Beginnings The National Association for the Education of Young Children http://www.naeyc.org/resources/position_statements/psmath.htm)

Integrate Mathematical Activities

Insights from brain research suggest that learning is easier for young children when experiences are interconnected rather than compartmentalized into narrow subject areas. Such experiences engage their curiosity, motivate them to apply their developing skills, and challenge children to think reflectively. Teaching strategies such as complex thematic units and the Project Approach provide integration and intellectual challenge. Children, especially in the early years of schooling, learn from these hands-on, thought-provoking experiences.

Develop Positive Attitudes

The primary grades are also important for the development of positive attitudes toward learning. When we are teaching the young child, we not only provide opportunities to learn knowledge and skills but also to develop attitudes about the use of that knowledge and those skills. Positive attitude and confidence will help the child seek more opportunities to practice the skills of mathematics. Mathematics is one of many complex skills that improve with use, not just with instruction.