Abstract
The purpose of this article is to present various techniques that will engage young children, ages 3–8, in learning science and mathematics. Children actively engage in acquiring basic science and mathematics concepts as they explore their environment. The methods presented are intended to meet the developmental levels of young learners as they make connections with science and mathematics. Also included is a review of science and mathematics content and process skills appropriate for early childhood age learners.
Similar content being viewed by others
References
Bredekamp, S., & Copple, C. (Eds.). (1997).Developmentally appropriate practice in early childhood programs (Revised ed.), Washington, DC: National Association for the Education of Young Children.
Bruner, J. (1966).Toward a theory of instruction. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press.
Charlesworth, R., & Lind, K. K. (2003).Math and science for children (4th ed.). Albany, NY: Delmar.
Gallenstein, N. L., & Johnson, F. F. (1998). Experiences of elementary Hispanic students in predominantly Anglo environments: A phenomenological study.GATEways to Teacher Education, 12(1), 35–54.
Ginsburg, H. P., & Baron, J. (1993). Cognition: Children’s construction of mathematics. In R. J. Jensen (Ed.),Research ideas for the classroom: Early childhood mathematics (pp. 3–21). New York: Macmillan.
Harlan, J. D., & Rivkin, M. S. (2004).Science experiences for the early childhood years: An integrated approach (8th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education, Inc.
Howe, A. C., & Jones, L. (1993).Engaging children in science. New York: Macmillan.
Isenberg, J. P., & Jalongo, M. R. (2001).Creative expression and play in early childhood. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice-Hall.
Kamii, C. (1986).Cognitive learning and development: Today’s kindergarten. New York: Teacher’s College Press.
Kellough, R. D., Carin, A. A., Seefeldt, C., Barbour, N., & Souviney, R. J. (1996).Integrating mathematics and science for kindergarten and primary children. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice-Hall.
Lind, K. K. (2005).Exploring science in early childhood education: A developmental approach (4th ed.). Clifton Park, NY: Thomson Delmar Learning.
Martin, D. J. (2003).Elementary science methods: A constructivist approach (3rd ed.). Albany, NY: Thomson/Wadsworth.
Morrison, G. S. (2000).Fundamentals of early childhood education (2nd ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice-Hall.
National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM). (2000).The principles and standards for school mathematics. Reston, VA: Author.
National Research Council (NRC). (1996).National science education standards. Washington, DC: National Academy Press.
Pine, K., Messer, D., & St. John, K. (2001). Children’s misconceptions in primary science: A survey of teachers’ views.Research in Science & Technological Education, 19(1), 79–94.
Renga, S., & Dalla, L. (1993). Affect: A critical component of mathematical learning in early childhood. In R. J. Jensen (Ed.),Research ideas for the classroom: Early childhood mathematics (pp. 22–39). New York: Macmillan.
Rutherford, F. J., & Ahlgren, A. (1990).Science for all Americans. New York: Oxford University Press.
Shaw, J. M., & Blake, S. S. (1998).Mathematics for young children. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice-Hall.
Sperry Smith, S. (2001).Early childhood mathematics (2nd ed.), Needham Heights, MA: Allyn & Bacon.
Walmsley, B. B., & Wing, D. R. (2004).Welcome to kindergarten: A month-by-month guide to teaching and learning. Portsmouth, NH: Heinemann.
Winnett, D. A., Rockwell, R. E., Sherwood, E. A., & Williams, R. A. (1996).Discovery science: Explorations for the early years. New York: Addison-Wesley.
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Corresponding author
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Gallenstein, N.L. Engaging young children in science and mathematics. J Elem Sci Edu 17, 27–41 (2005). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03174679
Accepted:
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03174679