Good Start, Grow Smart Early Learning Standards - SC Department ...

Introduction to Mathematics
Young children experience mathematics naturally and spontaneously as they explore, interact and try to make sense of their world.
The goal of mathematics instruction during the preschool years is to help children begin to develop their understanding and use of
mathematical concepts and vocabulary, and to become comfortable in applying mathematical models as a way of asking questions
and solving problems. To this end, teachers engage children in informally structured, playful experiences with carefully chosen materials,
model mathematical language and thinking in meaningful contexts daily, and guide children to pose questions, collect data,
and organize their observations. Many experiences with the mental processes of estimating, counting, ordering, measuring, comparing,
classifying, and combining objects and sets of objects help young children build a solid foundation for higher-order concepts
and skills taught in Grades 1-12. This developmentally appropriate center-based teaching lays the foundation for the areas of Mathematics
Processes, Number and Operations, Algebra, Geometry, Measurement, and Data Analysis and Probability. Thus, mathematics
is not a “subject” but, rather, a way of thinking taught throughout the day, using all classroom areas and activities, drawing upon
both teacher and child initiated activities as well as supporting children’s interest and extending their discovery learning.
Teachers integrate math into all aspects of the daily routine through individual and small-group activities, choices and transitions.
They allot time for in-depth, planned, small-group experiences that include interaction, problem solving and reflection. Teachers
recognize the strong connection between math and literacy and other content areas. Over time, teachers and parents will grow and
support each other as models for the children. The children’s early interest and the adult’s guidance will provide a strong foundation
and the confidence necessary for mathematics enjoyment and proficiency in school and life.
Kindergarten Overview
This overview provides only the highlights of the new learning that should take place at the kindergarten level. The specific skills and
subject matter that kindergartners should be taught in each of the five mathematical strands are set forth in the formal standards
and indicators for these strands.
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