Teaching Concepts

Mathematics involves the use of symbols, and a major goal of a program is to prepare students to read, write, and interpret these symbols.

In many current programs, symbols are introduced very early as a way of representing certain concepts. This serves to limit students' understanding of the concept and what these symbols represent and therefore greatly reduces their ability to make connections by applying their knowledge to new situations.

ORIGO Stepping Stones introduces symbols gradually after students have had many meaningful experiences with a model ranging from real objects, classroom materials, and 2D pictures, as shown on the left side of the diagram below. Symbols are also abstract representations of verbal words, so students move through distinct language stages.

This approach serves to build a deeper understanding of the concepts underlying abstract symbols. In this way, Stepping Stones better equips students with the confidence and ability to apply mathematics in new and unfamiliar situations.

 

Click below to watch our ORIGO One video on Teaching Concepts.