Introduction
This article is based on a Teaching Channel video titled “Teaching Early Math in Pre-K” The movie shows a prekindergarten arithmetic session and gives viewers a chance to see the teacher’s teaching style, opportunities for informal learning experiences, diversity concerns, and illustrations of kids understanding math concepts. The six areas of observation listed in the prompt will be covered in this report.
Approach to Instruction
The teacher in the video employed a hands-on teaching method, giving the students a variety of objects to examine and work with. She also used directed questioning to get the kids to think and reason about mathematical ideas (Making Meaningful Observations in a Preschool Classroom). This strategy adheres to Vygotsky’s recommendations for instruction, which stress the value of required examination and hands-on experience in fostering cognitive development.
Missed Opportunities for Informal Learning Experiences
No chances for informal learning encounters were lost throughout the observation. The teacher encouraged experimentation and exploration, giving the kids plenty of options to learn through play.
Consideration of Diversity
The educational plan seemed to take diversity into account in several different ways. The instructor employed various instructional techniques, such as visual aids, manipulatives, and voice directions. She also allowed the kids to work alone or in small groups (Making Meaningful Observations in a Preschool Classroom). The classroom contained various books and posters representing multiple racial and gender identities.
Concepts of Space on the Playground
Children’s spatial notions were visible in the playground observations of the kids. Children were seen navigating and climbing the jungle gym, calling for balance and spatial relationships (Making Meaningful Observations in a Preschool Classroom). They also descended the slide, which requires comprehension of the idea of trajectory.
Concepts of Space with Blocks
Children’s spatial notions were visible in the children’s play with blocks and other building materials. Children constructed various-sized buildings, requiring them to comprehend spatial relationships and balance (Making Meaningful Observations in a Preschool Classroom). Additionally, they experimented with various arrangements, revealing knowledge of symmetry and asymmetry.
Child’s Acquisition of Math Concept
A young child showed during the observation that they understood the idea of counting by accurately recognizing the number of objects on a card. The teacher commended the student’s work and encouraged them to succeed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the observed prekindergarten arithmetic class demonstrated a teacher who used a hands-on approach to learning and offered plenty of opportunities for exploration and experimentation. The curriculum seemed to consider diversity in various ways, and no chances for informal learning experiences were neglected. Children’s awareness of space was evident from observations of them playing with blocks and on the playground.
Work Cited
Teaching Strategies for Early Childhood Education. “Making Meaningful Observations in a Preschool Classroom.” YouTube, 2019. Web.