Do children need to undertsand the meaning of equal symbol before moving on to procedural arithmetic?
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Children should understand the meaning of the equal symbol before proceeding to procedural arithmetic. Research emphasizes the importance of developing relational thinking about the equal sign early on to avoid misconceptions. Studies show that young students often view the equal sign as an operational symbol rather than a relational one, hindering their ability to grasp more advanced algebraic concepts. Early exposure to the conceptual understanding of equalities is crucial for a flexible and sophisticated comprehension of equations, laying a strong foundation for mathematical reasoning and problem-solving. Therefore, designing mathematical experiences that promote a relational understanding of the equal sign from kindergarten onwards is essential for students' mathematical development and success in procedural arithmetic.
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| Papers (5) | Insight |
|---|---|
Open access 01 Jan 2007 5 Citations | Yes, understanding the equal sign is crucial before advancing to procedural arithmetic as it lays the foundation for algebraic concepts and problem-solving skills in elementary school students. |
| Understanding the meaning of the equal sign is crucial before proceeding to procedural arithmetic, as it forms the basis for grasping mathematical concepts and operations effectively. | |
| Children benefit from understanding the equal sign as a relational symbol before procedural arithmetic, as overemphasis on operational use can hinder grasping mathematical equivalence nuances in elementary school. | |
| Yes, children should understand the conceptual meaning of equalities before focusing on procedural arithmetic. Algebraic concepts are deemed more crucial than algebraic symbols in fostering flexible and sophisticated equation understanding. | |
16 Citations | Children need to develop a relational understanding of the equal sign before procedural arithmetic. Early operational views can persist, highlighting the importance of fostering relational thinking in kindergarten and preschool. |
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