Iconic and Symbolic Representation in Early Mathematics Teaching
Iconic and Symbolic Representation in Early Mathematics Teaching

Summary/Abstract: Mathematics is an abstract science, it uses a specific symbolic language,a kind of code that is difficult for children to comprehend.Using operation signs and numbers is not simple and obvious forthem. The learning of mathematics by children cannot thereforebe based on symbols alone. Action is needed first. However, sincethere is a large gap between an action and a symbol, it is necessary tosupport the teaching of mathematics with graphic means. Introducinga graphic element as a kind of methodological aid requires carefulpreparation, motivation and embedding it in previous physicalactivities performed by children. Otherwise, such an item, instead offacilitating the understanding of a concept, hinders that understandingand becomes an illusory aid. This paper describes the role andimportance of pictorial representation in early mathematics teaching.Based on selected examples of tasks from textbooks, the difficultiesof illustrating mathematical concepts are presented, and appropriatemethodological solutions in this area are indicated.

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