Link to Graphics of Past Months
Editorial
In
Early Education’s
recent survey two particular problems identified by
practitioners were problem solving, reasoning and numeracy
and knowledge and understanding of the world as the two most
'difficult' areas of learning to deliver. Those surveyed also
highlighted child-initiated play as an aspect on which they
need more guidance. Problems with teaching maths in the Early Years
are not new. Official reports including Ofsted and the ‘Williams
Maths Review’ (DCSF, 2008) consistently raise the same range of
concerns, echoed recently by the Review of the Primary Curriculum
(DCSF: 2009). Confusion about the value of play and its role in
learning persist.
Significantly whilst children may be exploring aspects of
mathematics in their play, this is often unrecognised by
practitioners. Now, in response to the ‘Williams Maths Review’s’
recommendation 4 (DCSF: 2008), new guidance entitled
Children Thinking Mathematically:
Problem Solving, Reasoning and Numeracy in the EYFS
is to be published this autumn by the DCSF. Through case
studies, numerous examples and photos of children’s play it explores
children’s mathematical graphics and many aspects of
problem solving, reasoning and numeracy in the Foundation stage
and into Key Stage 1.
The
publication of this document should do much to show the significance
of graphicacy and the rich potential of child-initiated play for
children’s mathematical thinking and enrich practitioners’
understanding. It is hoped that it will also raise the profile of
mathematics in early childhood education. Maulfry
News
Petition – to reject the proposal to lowering school admission age
John
Wadsworth of Goldsmiths’ College is petitioning the Prime Minister
to reject unconditionally Recommendation 14 of the Primary
Curriculum Review which proposes the lowering of school
admission age. To sign up, go to
http://petitions.number10.gov.uk/startingschool/
Welcome to new members
From London and the South East, welcome to
Helen Gillespie,
Kingston Local Authority; and from the
North of England, welcome to Joanne
Miles, Education Leeds.
Newly Added Reports
Cambridge
Primary Review: ‘The Primary Curriculum: an alternative vision’
Cambridge
Primary Review website
Early Education survey of practitioners views of the EYFS - one year
on
Next steps for early learning and childcare: Building on the 10-year
strategy
Your child, your schools, our future. Building a 21st century
schools system
Courses and Conferences
For 2009 - 2010
E-Bulletins
August
2009
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