Mathematics from Children's Literature

Abstract

The mathematics curriculum for young children can grow from children's literature. The following examples encourage children to use a variety of thinking skills—classifying, forming hypotheses, selecting strategies, and creating problems. As a result, they offer more depth and breadth in mathematics than most curriculum guides or texts currently suggest. At the same time, the examples build on children's interests and involve them in an informal, active, and creative way. ln particular, they offer the manipulative experiences that are necessary at this age.

Count Me In: Exploring Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion through Mathematics and Children's Literature

“…Teachers recognize that students develop greater appreciation for problem solving and greater capacity to communicate understanding and participate in mathematical discourse (NCTM, 2014) through contexts provided by stories (Leonard et al, 2014; Morrow‐Leong et al, 2021; Warden, 2022). Welchman‐Tischler (1992) interweaves mathematics and children's literature because stories: give students context when introducing mathematical concepts, align with using manipulatives, model experiences, pose questions, prepare students to focus concepts, develop concepts, and allow for concept review. …”