Mathematics and Numeracy (Years K-2)

The foundations for strong mathematical knowledge are laid down in primary education. This unit and its related content are organised in number and algebra, measurement and space, and statistics and probability. The important role of working mathematically plays across all areas of mathematics and reflects the strengthened connections between the concepts. Students examine developmental teaching theories and the psychology of learning mathematics, and how to use these to foster flexible, critical and creative thinking. They will also explore learning sequence design and lesson planning that promotes student-centred teaching and learning, examine investigative activities and tools to promote problem-solving and mathematics communication, apply strategies for assessment task development and learn to effectively integrate contemporary ICT tools and strategies into their teaching.


Quick Info

  • Currently offered by Alphacrucis: Yes
  • Course code: EDU419
  • Credit points: 10
  • Subject coordinator: Cassandra Pendlebury

Awards offering Mathematics and Numeracy (Years K-2)

This unit is offered as a part of the following awards:

Unit Content

Curriculum Objective

The foundations for strong mathematical knowledge are laid down in primary education. This unit and its related content are organised in number and algebra, measurement and space, and statistics and probability. The important role of working mathematically plays across all areas of mathematics and reflects the strengthened connections between the concepts. Students examine developmental teaching theories and the psychology of learning mathematics, and how to use these to foster flexible, critical and creative thinking. They will also explore learning sequence design and lesson planning that promotes student-centred teaching and learning, examine investigative activities and tools to promote problem-solving and mathematics communication, apply strategies for assessment task development and learn to effectively integrate contemporary ICT tools and strategies into their teaching.

Outcomes

1.

Use curriculum, assessment and mathematical content knowledge to design learning sequences and lesson plans.

2.

Plan lesson sequences and activities that promote problem-solving, working and communicating mathematically and that integrate knowledge of student learning, content and effective teaching strategies.

3.

Demonstrate an understanding of diagnostic, informal and formative assessment approaches to assess student learning and the purpose of using this assessment as timely and appropriate feedback to improve student learning.

4.

Implement a wide range of teaching strategies, tools and resources related to ICT to expand curriculum learning opportunities.

5.

Construct a personal philosophy of teaching Mathematics.

Subject Content

1

Introduction to Primary Mathematics Education

-Understanding the significance of mathematics education K-2

-Exploring the Australian curriculum standards for mathematics

-Overview of the unit structure and learning outcomes

Throughout the course, there will be a focus on practical application through reflective tasks, lesson planning exercises, and peer collaboration. Participants will engage in discussions, case studies, and hands-on activities to deepen their understanding of effective mathematics pedagogy in the K-2 education context

2

Curriculum and Assessment in K-2 Mathematics

-Utilising curriculum knowledge to design learning sequences and lesson plans

-Planning activities that promote problem-solving, mathematical communication, and working mathematically

-Understanding informal and formative assessment approaches for K-2 mathematics

-Providing timely and appropriate feedback to students about their learning progress

 

3

Number and Algebra

-Building foundational concepts in number sense

-Strategies for teaching addition, subtraction

-Problem-solving approaches in numerical and algebraic contexts

 

4

Measurement and Space

-Understanding the concepts of measurement and spatial reasoning K-2

-Teaching strategies for length, area, volume, and time

-Exploring geometric shapes, symmetry, and transformations

-Integrating measurement and spatial concepts into real-world contexts

Statistics and Probability

-Introduction to statistical thinking in primary mathematics

-Teaching strategies for data collection, representation, and interpretation

-Probability concepts and their applications in K-2 education

-Engaging students in data analysis and probability experiments

 

5

Student-Centred Teaching and Learning

-Learning sequence design and lesson planning for student-centred mathematics instruction

-Investigative activities and tools to promote problem-solving and mathematics communication

-Assessment task development strategies aligned with student-centred learning approaches

-Case studies and examples of effective student-centred teaching practices

6

Promoting Problem Solving and Mathematical Communication

-Planning lesson sequences that encourage problem-solving skills in young learners

-Fostering mathematical communication through collaborative activities and discussions

-Creating a supportive learning environment that encourages risk-taking and experimentation

-Incorporating storytelling and play-based approaches to enhance mathematical understanding

7

Developmental Teaching Theories and Psychology of Learning Mathematics

-Exploring key developmental theories related to mathematical learning

-Understanding cognitive and affective factors influencing mathematical development

-Strategies for fostering flexible, critical, and creative thinking in students

-Applying psychological principles to address mathematical misconceptions and challenges

 

8

Effective Teaching Strategies for K-2 Mathematics

-Implementing a wide range of teaching strategies tailored to early childhood mathematics

-Exploring tools and resources to enhance mathematics instruction in K-2 classrooms

-Integrating ICT tools effectively to expand curriculum learning opportunities

-Developing engaging activities to promote mathematical exploration and discovery

9

Integration of ICT Tools and Strategies

-Addressing challenges and opportunities of using ICT in mathematics education

-Developing an action plan for effective integration of ICT in the K-2 mathematics classroom that promote digital literacy and computational thinking skills

-Exploring a variety of ICT tools and resources suitable for K-2 mathematics instruction

-Incorporating technology into lesson planning to enhance learning experiences

10

Assessment for Learning in Early Childhood Mathematics

-Understanding the purpose of assessment in K-2 mathematics education

-Implementing informal assessment strategies to gauge student learning progress

-Providing constructive feedback to students to support their mathematical development

-Using assessment data to inform instructional decisions and differentiate learning experiences

11

Constructing a Personal Philosophy of Teaching Mathematics

-Reflecting on experiences and insights gained throughout the course

-Articulating a personal philosophy of teaching mathematics in the early years

-Aligning teaching practices with core beliefs and values about mathematics education

-Developing an action plan for continued professional growth and improvement in early childhood mathematics pedagogy

12

Selecting relevant resources

This course may be offered in the following formats

  • Face-to-Face
  • Intensive
  • Distance/ Global Online

Please consult your course prospectus or enquire about how and when this course will be offered next at Alphacrucis University College.

Assessment Methods

Assessment Overview

Assessment Type

Outcomes

Weighting

  1. Critical Reflection:

      Forum Posts

1 - 5

20% (3000 words in total)

  1. Minor Essay

1 - 5

30% (2000 words)

  1. Integrated Unit of Work

1 - 4

50% (3000 words)

Prescribed Text

  • References will include the most current curriculum requirements for schools.

Check with the instructor each semester before purchasing any prescribed texts or representative references