W8 - Numerical Cog (EARLY CHILDHOOD) Flashcards
What is the difference between symbolic and non-symbolic number systems?
Non-symbolic number systems, used by infants and some animals, represent numbers without symbols, while symbolic number systems, unique to humans, use number words and counting to precisely represent numerical information.
Why is the symbolic number system important?
It allows humans to record and manipulate large numbers precisely, unlike non-symbolic systems that have limitations.
When do infants begin learning language?
In utero (before birth).
At what age can newborns distinguish their native language from a foreign language?
From birth (Mehler et al., 1988).
By what age do infants recognize the meanings of common words?
By 6 months (Bergelson & Swingley, 2012).
At what age can most children recite a list of numbers and respond to “How many?” questions?
By 2 years old.
What is the “Stable Order” principle in counting?
Children use the same number labels in the same order, even if the sequence is incorrect (Gelman & Gallistel, 1978).
What is “One-to-One Correspondence” in counting?
The understanding that each object gets exactly one number word when counted (Gelman & Meck, 1983).
Why is learning to count difficult for children?
Unlike object labels, number words represent sets, not individuals, and require understanding a system rather than just memorization.
What is the Give-N Task?
A method where children are asked to place a specific number of objects on a plate to assess their understanding of number words.
What are the stages of number word learning identified in the Give-N Task (Lee & Sarnecka, 2010)?
One-knower – Understands “one” but not larger numbers. Two-knower – Understands “one” and “two”. Three-knower – Understands numbers up to three. Four-knower – Understands numbers up to four (for some children). Cardinal Principle Knower – Understands that the last counted number represents the set size and the successor function (N+1).
What 3 key concepts must children learn to fully understand counting?
Cardinality – The number of elements in a set. Cardinality Principle – The last number in a count represents the total quantity. Successor Function – Each number is one more than the previous.
Is the process of learning number words universal?
Yes, children across different languages and cultures follow the same stage-like progression, though the timing varies (Jara-Ettinger et al., 2017).
How does number learning differ between Western children and Tsimane children?
Western children learn number words earlier, but both groups follow the same developmental pattern.
Why do children struggle with learning number words compared to object labels?
Object labels (e.g., “cat”) refer to individual things, while number words (e.g., “three”) refer to sets, requiring an understanding of counting rules.
What does counting rely on beyond memorization?
Understanding an algorithmic system, including the successor function and cardinality principle.
How do infant numerical abilities relate to later math skills?
Infants with better numerical discrimination at 6 months perform better in math at 3.5 years (Starr et al., 2013).
How do early symbolic number skills impact future math performance?
Children with stronger symbolic number knowledge at age 3 tend to perform better in school math.
Do children lose access to their non-symbolic number systems?
No, they retain these abilities (continuity).
Do early numerical skills predict later math success?
Yes, early number abilities correlate with later math performance (continuity).
Are non-symbolic and symbolic number systems the same?
No, symbolic numbers allow precise and unlimited representation, whereas non-symbolic systems have limitations (discontinuity).
What key milestones mark the transition from non-symbolic to symbolic number understanding?
- Learning number words. 2. Discovering cardinality and the successor function. 3. Transitioning from knowing small numbers one at a time (1, 2, 3) to understanding larger numbers quickly (4, 5, 6, etc.).
How do early numerical abilities impact later learning?
They provide the foundation for future math skills, influencing academic success.
