Blocks and Beyond : Strengthening Early Math and Science Skills Through Spatial Learning

by Pollman, Mary Jo

• ISBN13: 9781598571011
• ISBN10: 159857101X
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2010-07-02
• Publisher: Brookes Pub

Summary

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. Now early childhood educators have a guidebook to help them seamlessly integrate spatial learning 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 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; improves teacher quality; uses easy-to-find materials; is fully supported by the latest research and highly respected educational theories; and provides a foundation for later success in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) 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.

Author Biography

Mary Jo Pollman, Ph.D., is Professor of Early Childhood Education at Metropolitan State College of Denver.

Table of Contents

About the Author	p. vii
About the Contributor	p. ix
Preface	p. xi
Acknowledgments	p. xv
Theoretical Background
An Overview of Research on Spatial Development	p. 3
A Curriculum that Promoted Spatial Development: Friedrich Froebel, a Trained Architect and Mathematician	p. 16
Spatial Development Throughout the Curriculum
Spatial Development and Math	p. 43
Spatial Development and Art and Literature	p. 59
Spatial Development and Social Studies	p. 65
Spatial Development and Science	p. 72
Spatial Relationships and Technology	p. 85
Where Are All the Blocks?	p. 91
Innovation and Spatial Development in the Future	p. 109
References	p. 115
Appendixes
Using the Froebelian Gifts to Promote Further Mathematical Knowledge	p. 123
Grids Provide an Organizational Scheme for Studying Shape and Form	p. 136
Vocabulary and Spatial Activities	p. 138
Games and Activities	p. 145
National Council of Teachers of Mathematics' Prekindergarten Through Grade 2 Curriculum Focal Points and Connections	p. 153
Literature, Readings, and Resources	p. 160
Index	p. 169
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