TLS316

The goal of this course is for prospective early childhood teachers to learn methods of teaching mathematics in preschool, kindergarten, and early elementary classrooms. This course emphasizes the ways that young children (age 0 to 8 years) make sense of mathematical ideas and concepts through direct personal and integrated learning experiences. The primary goal of this course is to promote and nurture an Early Childhood professionals' sense of curiosity about how children learn and come to understand mathematical ideas. Special attention will be given to approaches and methods for English Language Learners and bilingual students. This course examines components of effective mathematics instruction in early childhood including: developmentally appropriate learning environments, use of models and concrete materials, fostering connections between students' home, community and school experiences, promoting mathematical discourse, and research-based strategies for supporting the development of children's mathematical thinking. The course is also designed to provide prospective teachers an opportunity to reflect on their beliefs about teaching, learning and their expectations for students. Students are taught how to develop practices and materials for ELL and bilingual students. Students seeking a bilingual endorsement will complete assignments focused on bilingual students. Additionally, future teachers will become familiar with the Arizona State Standards for Mathematics, the AZ Early Learning Standards, and the NAEYC/NCTM position statement on early childhood mathematics education.