(Shape: Developing Definitions )Big Ideas of Early Mathematics.

1. Most kindergarten-readiness tests include naming common two-dimensional shapes. After reading the chapter, do you agree that this is an important skill to emphasize? Why or why not?

2. The Math Snapshots in this chapter describe how Mr. Barry (from your text's Math Snapshots) develops a "Math Challenge" to build towers, which extends for a week. In your opinion, what is the value of continuing an activity over more than one day? To what extent are you able to do this or wanting to do this in your own teaching?

he article "Tools for Physical Science Inquiry(Links to an external site.)" by Hoisington and Winokur from the University of Nevada. Then, answer the following reflection questions. https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&ved=2ahUKEwjutpf_0fD3AhXPqVYBHaH8CWQ4ChAWegQIGBAB&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffoundationsofscienceliteracy.edc.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2019%2F07%2FSC-Vol53-5.pdf&usg=AOvVaw0LKKExF24ncNbeP0De2Mg0

Article Reflection Questions:

1.Before reading this article, did you think you were including activities and lessons that covered physical science concepts in your classroom already? How has this article affected your understanding of ways in which you can introduce physical science concepts to early learners?

2. What surprised you the most about the article's description of physical science learning in early childhood education? Why?

Watch:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DnkO4BqumQU

After watching the video, answer the following questions:

1. What are ways that the teacher clearly puts the emphasis on the defining attributes of shapes instead of their name alone?

2. The children in the video are young preschoolers; what are the ways this activity might look different in a kindergarten classroom like Mr. Barry's?

3. What evidence do you see that children are engaged and actively constructing their own understanding?

4. What are aspects of this activity that can relate to physical science, what concepts from physical science are covered?

5. During this activity, what questions can you ask children in order to guide them in the understanding of physical science concepts?