1:1 CORRESPONDENCE & ITS IMPORTANCE IN NUMERACY
WHAT IS 1:1 CORRESPONDENCE?
1:1 (one-to-one) correspondence refers to the ability to assign exactly one number to one corresponding object that is being counted. For example, if there are three objects to be counted, the first object being counted will be counted as 'one', the second as 'two', and the third as 'three'. Each object to be counted must be touched or 'included' only once as the child says the numbers 1.
It also refers to the ability to match exactly one object to another corresponding object, as in the case of pairing a fork with a spoon when setting the table. WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?Being able to count using 1:1 correspondence is a prerequisite skill for success in mathematics and numeracy. This is because it provides the foundation for seeing number as a representation of quantity, and allows for more sophisticated counting skills such as skip counting.
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Here is a video demonstrating what 1:1 correspondence looks like and how you, as a parent, can develop this skill at home in an authentic manner.
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WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MATHEMATICS AND NUMERACY?
Mathematics is often understood in terms of content knowledge and the various topics usually covered as part of the curriculum, such as arithmetic, algebra and geometry 3.
Numeracy, on the other hand, is the ability to harness this mathematical knowledge for practical purposes in everyday life 4. It involves an understanding of number as a symbolic system, as well as reasoning skills in order to engage in and interpret our number-rich environment 5. It also includes using numbers to solve problems by weighing different options, deciding on the most appropriate one, and explaining the solutions. This includes making informed decisions based on calculations, logical thinking and reasoning, as well as analysing and interpreting information at hand 5, 6.
As a result, learning experiences developing the skill of 1:1 correspondence should be authentic and reflect students' sociocultural contexts.
Numeracy, on the other hand, is the ability to harness this mathematical knowledge for practical purposes in everyday life 4. It involves an understanding of number as a symbolic system, as well as reasoning skills in order to engage in and interpret our number-rich environment 5. It also includes using numbers to solve problems by weighing different options, deciding on the most appropriate one, and explaining the solutions. This includes making informed decisions based on calculations, logical thinking and reasoning, as well as analysing and interpreting information at hand 5, 6.
As a result, learning experiences developing the skill of 1:1 correspondence should be authentic and reflect students' sociocultural contexts.
HOW WOULD AN EARLY CHILDHOOD SETTING PROVIDE FOR THIS?
Click on the button below to access how two examples of how early childhood settings may incorporate a play-based approach to address this concept, and what children can learn from them based on outcomes from the Australian Curriculum and the Early Years Learning Framework:
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HOW CAN I DEVELOP 1:1 CORRESPONDENCE WITH MY OWN CHILD?
Here are just a few examples that you may find helpful.
Asking your child questions in a range of settings:
(Tip: Think of your current everyday routines. It is easier to embed a new idea into a pre-existing pattern of habits.) |
REFERENCES:
- Reys, R. E., Lindquist, M. M., Lambdin, D. V., Smith, N. L., Rogers, A., Falle, J., Frid, S., & Bennett, S. (2012). Helping children learn mathematics. Milton, QLD: John Wiley & Sons Australia.
- Connor, J. (2011). Being numerate. EYL FPLP e-Newsletter, 22. Retrieved from http://www.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au/nqsplp/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/EYLFPLP_E-Newsletter_No22.pdf
- Compton, A., Fielding, H., & Scott, M. (2007). Mathematics or numeracy? In Supporting numeracy: A guide for school support staff. London, UK: SAGE Publications Ltd.
- Teach in Scotland. (n.d.). About numeracy. Retrieved from http://www.teachinscotland.org/doihavewhatittakes/knowledgeandskills/developyourskills/numeracy/about/about.asp
- Teach in Scotland. (n.d.). Difference between numeracy and mathematics. Retrieved from http://www.teachinscotland.org/doihavewhatittakes/knowledgeandskills/developyourskills/numeracy/about/difference.asp
Updated: September 16th, 2015 by Christie Oh