The impact of the Promoting Early Number Talk project on classroom mathematics talk

ABSTRACT

It is widely acknowledged that teaching and learning the language of mathematics is essential for the development of mathematical proficiency. Recent research highlights the need for explicit vocabulary instruction in mathematics. The Promoting Early Number Talk (PENT) project explored the effect of ‘Number Talk’ – a resource book to promote early number vocabulary – on teaching and learning in five Year 1 primary school classes in Northern Ireland. This article investigates the impact of the PENT project on classroom mathematics talk. Findings from group interviews with the five teachers demonstrate an increased awareness of the importance of mathematics vocabulary and indicate that changes in classroom practice had supported children’s language and learning.

KEYWORDS:

• Mathematics
• teaching and learning
• number
• language
• vocabulary development
• early years

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Notes on contributors

Dr Pamela Moffett is a Senior Lecturer at Stranmillis University College where she delivers courses in mathematics pedagogy on the BEd (Primary), PGCE (Early Years) and CPD programmes. Her research interests include the development of early number sense and the use of meaningful contexts for children's learning in mathematics. She recently co-authored ‘Number Talk’, a teaching resource book to promote understanding and use of number language in the early years.

Dr Patricia Eaton is Director of Teaching and Learning at Stranmillis University College with leadership responsibility for the full range of teaching and learning in the College including quality assurance and enhancement. She previously taught a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses and has significant leadership responsibilities for undergraduate degree programmes, Master's level provision and Continuing Professional Development. She also has extensive experience in managing large scale funded projects. Her research interests include mathematics education, effective teacher education, teacher CPD, and diversity and community relations.

Additional information

Funding

This project was funded by internal seed-funding from Stranmillis University College, Belfast.