Mathematics is hierarchical in nature and the concepts are logically structured and connected. Which of the following statements most appropriately explains this? (a) Multiplication follows and builds on the concept of addition. (b) Addition and multiplication are distinct concepts independent of each other. (c) Mathematical concepts should only be assessed through summative assessments. (d) Number sense needs to be developed before the concept of addition and subtraction. Choose the correct option.
Mathematics is hierarchical in nature and the concepts are logically structured and connected. Which of the following statements most appropriately explains this? (a) Multiplication follows and builds on the concept of addition. (b) Addition and multiplication are distinct concepts independent of each other. (c) Mathematical concepts should only be assessed through summative assessments. (d) Number sense needs to be developed before the concept of addition and subtraction. Choose the correct option. Correct Answer (a) and (d)
Mathematics is a branch of study concerned with structure, order, and relationships that arose from elemental activities of counting, measuring, and describing the shapes of objects.
Key Points
- Nature of mathematics- The mathematical concepts are hierarchical, which means that they are built on the practical and conceptual knowledge from one class to the next, i.e. they are taught in a predetermined order such as arithmetic first, then algebra, trigonometry, and calculus.
- Relationship between addition and multiplication- Addition is the process of combining different elements to generate a new total. Multiplication, on the other hand, is the process of using repeated addition. The addition is the precursor of multiplication and multiplication follows and builds on the concept of addition. They are interdependent.
- Number sense is a person's ability to understand, relate and connect numbers. Children having strong number sense can think flexibly and fluently about numbers. It helps children to understand what numbers mean, improves their mental mathematics and it should be developed the concept of addition and subtraction.
Hence, we conclude that the statement that most appropriately explained this is (a) and (d).
- Whereas it is also clear that addition and multiplication are dependent on each other and mathematical concepts should not only be accessed through summative assessment as there are many other assessment techniques like portfolios, formative assessments, etc.