6533b820fe1ef96bd127999c

RESEARCH PRODUCT

Core numerical skills for learning mathematics in children aged five to eight years – a working model for educators

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The aim of this study was to model the most crucial numerical factors to the development of mathematical skills among children aged five to eight years (i.e. kindergarten, preschool, first and second graders). We categorised numerical skills into four main groups based on the results of longitudinal studies. A series of analyses of test batteries designed to measure the development of mathematical skills in children yielded results in support of this construct. Based on our findings we propose a working model for teachers of core numerical skills that focuses on four major factors: (1) symbolic and non-symbolic number sense; (2) understanding mathematical relations (early mathematical-logical principles, arithmetic principles, mathematical operational symbols, place-value and base-ten system); (3) counting skills (knowledge of number-symbols, number word-sequence, enumeration with concrete objects); and (4) basic skills in arithmetic (arithmetic combinations, addition and subtraction skills with number sy...