Blocks and Beyond: Strengthening Early Math and Science Skills through Spatial Learning by Mary Jo Pollman, Ph.D. makes a strong case that spatial development should be part of every young child's education — it's linked with higher achievement not just in math and science, but across all academic areas. This is the guidebook to help early childhood educators integrate spatial learning seamlessly into their everyday curriculum.
Focusing on areas key to academic success (math, science, art and literature, and social studies), early childhood expert Mary Jo Pollman gives teachers research-based insights and ready-to-use activities for promoting children's spatial development throughout the school day. Developed for use with children in preschool through third grade, this innovative teacher training resource. ISBN 978-1-59857-101-1 Paperback / 200 pages / 7 x 10 / 2010
"A wonderful resource for teachers and parents of young children to encourage the love of learning—especially in math—and weave spatial development throughout all curriculum areas." ~ Linda Adams, Executive Director, Colorado Association for the Education of Young Children, Highlands Ranch, Colorado
"Very timely ... provides the conceptual underpinnings for the current interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) at the early childhood and elementary levels. A valualbe resource for teachers." ~ Rosalind Charlesworth, Ph.D., Professor Emerita, Weber State University, Ogden, UT
* Aligns with key focal points specified by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, the National Math Panel Report, and the National Science Education Standards
* Helps children progress in specific areas where U.S. students are falling behind—particularly geometry and geography
* Improves teacher quality—helps them plan a successful, well-rounded curriculum with creative, age-appropriate activities
* Strengthens the home–school learning connection with suggestions for games that parents and children can do together
* Uses easy-to-find materials—shows how to improve spatial skills with everyday items like blocks, play dough, puzzles, globes, and objects found in nature
* Is fully supported by the latest research and highly respected educational theories, clearly explained throughout the book so teachers know the why behind the how
* Provides a foundation for later success in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields
A great inservice professional development resource and an essential text for preservice teachers, this book is key to creating a curriculum that actively promotes spatial development and sets the stage for strong math, science, and other academic skills.
Infuse spatial development activities across academic areas:
* Math. Follow the NCTM's call for more geometry in the earlier grades with creative spatial activities—specifically designed to connect to NCTM focal points.
* Science. Using spatial science activities, help children learn basic principles of biology, astronomy, physics, engineering, and earth science.
* Social studies. Improve geographic literacy through map reading, movement and exploration, representation and symbolization, and directional words.
* Art & literature. Increase spatial skills by studying the lines and shapes in famous paintings and illustrations in children's books.
Table of Contents
About the Author
About the Contributor
Preface
Acknowledgments
I. Theoretical Background
1. An Overview of Research on Spatial Development
2. A Curriculum that Promoted Spatial Development: Friedrich Froebel, a Trained Architect and Mathematician
II. Spatial Development Throughout the Curriculum
3. Spatial Development and Math
4. Spatial Development and Art and Literature
5. Spatial Development and Social Studies
6. Spatial Development and Science
Sandra Phifer
7. Spatial Relationships and Technology
8. Where Are All the Blocks?
9. Innovation and Spatial Development in the Future
References
Appendixes
A. Using the Froebelian Gifts to Promote Further Mathematical Knowledge
B. Grids Provide an Organizational Scheme for Studying Shape and Form
C. Vocabulary and Spatial Activities
D. Games and Activities
E. National Council of Teachers of Mathematics' Prekindergarten Through Grade 2 Curriculum Focal Points and Connections
F. Literature, Readings, and Resources
Index |
