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Cover of Swing Sets A First Look at Sets in Math (Math Books for Children)

Swing Sets A First Look at Sets in Math (Math Books for Children)

by David E McAdams

Book Details

Publisher:Math Books for Children
Published:2023-06-02
Format:paperback
Language:English
ISBN:1632707519

Reading Info

Age Range:4-8

About This Book

Swing Sets uses childrens' natural ability to classify objects to introduce the concept of a set and membership in a set. Sets are fundamental to modern mathematics. Every principle of number theory, arithmetic, algebra, geometry, trigonometry and calculus is defined in terms of sets. An early understanding of the principles, language and notation of sets will prepare a child to absorb higher math concepts quickly and thoroughly. A definition of a set is "a collection of objects where it is know

Our Review

This engaging early math book introduces young children to the foundational concept of sets through the familiar, playful context of a playground, transforming an abstract mathematical idea into a tangible learning experience. By using children's natural instinct to sort and classify everyday objects, the book clearly demonstrates what a set is and what it means for an object to be a member of a set. The simple, relatable examples help build essential pre-math skills in classification and logical thinking, making it an excellent first look at set theory for preschoolers and kindergarteners. This approach lays crucial groundwork for number sense and early mathematical reasoning in a way that feels more like discovery than instruction.

What makes this introduction to mathematics particularly effective is how it builds a child's math vocabulary with clear, precise language while keeping the learning process active and visual. Children who enjoy sorting their toys or grouping similar items will immediately connect with the activities presented, gaining confidence in their ability to recognize patterns and categories. The book successfully prepares young minds for more complex mathematical concepts they'll encounter in elementary school, from basic arithmetic to later algebraic thinking. Parents and educators will appreciate how this playful exploration makes higher math accessible, planting seeds for mathematical fluency that will grow with the child.

Themes

Juvenile Nonfiction

Subjects

Juvenile Nonfiction