Understanding Mathematics in the Lower Primary Years

`There have been few mathematical texts which cause readers to smile, but one of the great strengths of this book is the consistent good humour. Hiding in the explanations of more abstract concepts are unexpected images, such as the "two thousand sets of zero elephants placed inside these brackets [ ]", which surprise and entertain, and so render difficult ideas memorable' - Mathematics Education Review

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 four to eight year olds. It provides 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.