Explain this
Understanding Primary Mathematics
How the publisher describes it:
“In this textbook, the foundations of mathematics are made explicit and the reader is guided through the background knowledge and understanding that are required for the subject, offering a well-structured overview of the important issues to be considered when learning about mathematics on a Primary QTS course, and a coherent approach to the content to be found in the standards for QTS, the National Curriculum at Key Stages 1 and 2 and the numeracy strategy.”
Review by Lesley Jones
In brief:
It is very clear that the authors have extensive experience of working with the ‘target audience’ for this book and have produced a text which will be an invaluable resource for future teachers.
“Clearly set out and very accessible”
This book is aimed at trainee primary teachers and sets out to help them to develop an overview of the mathematics they will need for their career and an understanding of the standards they need to achieve for QTS.
The text is clearly set out and very accessible. Each section includes a well researched introduction detailing the historical and social context of the mathematical area with references to further reading for anyone who wishes to delve deeper. Each section also draws out implications for teaching which include the significance of the area for pupils' mathematical development as well as practical suggestions for ways to approach the teaching. Finally each section includes self assessment questions, with the answers given at the back of the book.
Students often struggle with the vocabulary of mathematics; bringing half-remembered terms to mind, but struggling to relate them to specific ideas and often being unwilling to ask for clarification as they feel they ought to know. This book is very good at providing clear explanations of terms and the layout is such that these are easily accessible. Within the main text ‘possible misconceptions’ are identified and explained carefully, with the clear intention of leading the reader to a better understanding of the mathematics involved and avoiding the pitfalls of teaching misconceptions.
Included with the book is a CD-Rom which includes a mental maths check, a selection of multiple choice questions on the topics covered in the book and links to activities from the world wide web. These will be useful for those readers who have yet to pass their mathematics ‘skills tests’.
It is very clear that the authors have extensive experience of working with the ‘target audience’ for this book and have produced a text which will be an invaluable resource for future teachers.
Lesley Jones • Consultant in Mathematics Education and Primary Education
Paperback: 240 pages
Publisher: David Fulton Publishers; Pap/Cdr edition (7 July 2005)
Language English
ISBN-10: 1843120127
ISBN-13: 978-1843120124
Product Dimensions: 24.2 x 18.8 x 1.4 cm
