Learning and Teaching Early Math ─ The Learning Trajectories Approach

"Most everyone agrees that effective mathematics teaching involves "meeting the students where they are" and helping them build on what they know. But that is often easier said than done. In this important new book for pre and in service teachers, early math experts Douglas Clements and Julie Sarama show how "learning trajectories" help diagnose what mathematics a child knows. By opening up new windows to seeing young children and the inherent delight and curiosity behind their mathematical reasoning, learning trajectories ultimately make teaching more joyous. They help teachers understand the varying level of knowledge and thinking of their classes and the individuals within them as is key in serving the needs of all children. In straightforward, no-nonsense language, this book summarizes what is known about how children learn mathematics, and how to build on what they know to realize more effective teaching practice.The second edition of Learning and Teaching Early Math remains the definitive, research-based resource to help teachers understand the learning trajectories of early mathematics and become a quintessential professional. Updates to the new edition include: Explicit connections between Learning Tracjectories and the new Common Core State Standards. New coverage of patterns and patterning. A companion website featuring student support materials such as a glossary of technical terms and pedagogical activities. "--

Douglas H. Clements is the Kennedy Endowed Chair in Early Childhood Learning, Executive Director of the Marsico Institute of Early Learning and Literacy, and Professor at the University of Denver, USA.

Julie Sarama is the Kennedy Endowed Chair in Innovative Learning Technologies and Professor at the University of Denver, USA.