Mathematics and Science in Play-Based Learning
Expert-defined terms from the Professional Certificate in Play-Based Learning course at London School of International Business. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
Alphabetical Glossary of Terms for Mathematics and Science in Play #
Based Learning:
1. Addition #
- Explanation: Addition is a mathematical operation that combines two or… #
In play-based learning, children can use blocks, counters, or other manipulatives to physically add quantities together. For example, if a child has 2 blocks and adds 3 more, they can physically count the blocks to see the total of 5.
2. Balance #
- Explanation: Balance refers to the state of equilibrium where two sides… #
In play-based learning, children can explore balance by using a balance scale to compare the weight of different objects or quantities. For example, they can place blocks on each side of the scale to see when it is balanced.
3. Counting #
- Explanation: Counting involves assigning numbers to objects in a specif… #
In play-based learning, children can practice counting by counting objects in their environment, such as toys, blocks, or books. They can also use number cards or number lines to practice counting sequentially.
4. Decomposition #
- Explanation: Decomposition is the process of breaking a number into sma… #
In play-based learning, children can decompose numbers by using manipulatives like counters or blocks. For example, to decompose the number 6, a child can use 4 counters and 2 counters to show the parts that make up 6.
5. Experiment #
- Explanation: An experiment is a scientific procedure carried out to inv… #
In play-based learning, children can conduct simple experiments to explore scientific concepts such as cause and effect, gravity, or buoyancy. For example, they can test which materials float or sink in water.
6. Fractions #
- Explanation: Fractions represent a part of a whole or a ratio of two nu… #
In play-based learning, children can explore fractions using manipulatives like fraction bars or circles. For example, they can divide a pizza into equal parts to understand the concept of fractions and how they relate to the whole.
7. Geometry #
- Explanation: Geometry is the branch of mathematics that deals with the… #
In play-based learning, children can explore geometry by identifying and creating shapes, measuring angles, and understanding symmetry. For example, they can build shapes using blocks or draw shapes in sand.
8. Hypothesis #
- Explanation: A hypothesis is a proposed explanation based on limited ev… #
In play-based learning, children can develop hypotheses about scientific phenomena and test them through experiments or observations. For example, they can hypothesize that plants need sunlight to grow and conduct an experiment to test their hypothesis.
9. Inquiry #
- Explanation: Inquiry refers to the process of asking questions, seeking… #
In play-based learning, children can engage in inquiry-based activities to explore scientific concepts, such as observing insects in a garden or conducting simple experiments. Inquiry-based learning encourages children to ask questions, make predictions, and seek answers through exploration.
10. Juxtaposition #
- Explanation: Juxtaposition is the act of placing two or more things clo… #
In play-based learning, children can use juxtaposition to compare and contrast objects, shapes, colors, or sizes. For example, they can line up blocks of different colors to compare their lengths or stack blocks in different ways to see how they balance.
11. Kinesthetic Learning #
- Explanation: Kinesthetic learning involves learning through physical ac… #
In play-based learning, children can engage in kinesthetic learning by using their bodies to explore mathematical and scientific concepts. For example, they can use their hands to manipulate objects, build structures, or conduct experiments to understand concepts like balance, force, or measurement.
12. Logic #
- Explanation: Logic refers to the process of reasoning, making inference… #
In play-based learning, children can develop logical thinking skills by solving puzzles, riddles, or mathematical problems. For example, they can use logic to sequence numbers, solve patterns, or identify relationships between objects.
13. Measurement #
- Explanation: Measurement is the process of determining the size, length… #
In play-based learning, children can practice measurement by comparing objects, using non-standard units like blocks or paper clips, or exploring concepts like length, weight, or volume. For example, they can measure the length of a table using blocks or compare the weight of different objects using a balance scale.
14. Numeracy #
- Explanation: Numeracy refers to the ability to understand and work with… #
In play-based learning, children can develop numeracy skills by exploring numbers, patterns, and relationships through hands-on activities. For example, they can practice counting, addition, subtraction, and other mathematical operations using manipulatives like counters, number lines, or math games.
15. Observation #
- Explanation: Observation is the act of watching, noticing, and recordin… #
In play-based learning, children can practice observation skills by using their senses to explore the environment, make predictions, and record their findings. For example, they can observe changes in plants, animals, or materials over time and document their observations in a journal or notebook.
16. Patterns #
- Explanation: Patterns are recurring sequences or arrangements of object… #
In play-based learning, children can identify, create, and extend patterns using different materials or manipulatives. For example, they can create patterns with blocks, beads, or colors to practice recognizing and predicting patterns in mathematics and science.
17. Quantity #
- Explanation: Quantity refers to the amount or number of something, such… #
In play-based learning, children can explore quantity by counting objects, comparing amounts, or measuring quantities using different tools. For example, they can use blocks to represent quantities, compare the number of objects in two sets, or measure the length of a line using non-standard units.
18. Ratio #
- Explanation: A ratio is a comparison of two quantities or numbers using… #
In play-based learning, children can explore ratios by comparing the sizes, quantities, or proportions of objects using manipulatives like blocks, counters, or measuring tools. For example, they can compare the number of red and blue blocks in a set to create a ratio or use fraction bars to represent ratios visually.
19. Sorting #
- Explanation: Sorting involves arranging objects or items into groups or… #
In play-based learning, children can practice sorting by organizing objects by color, shape, size, or other criteria. For example, they can sort blocks by color, group animals by type, or classify shapes based on the number of sides.
20. Transformation #
- Explanation: Transformation refers to the act of changing the position,… #
In play-based learning, children can explore transformations by manipulating shapes, objects, or patterns to understand how they change. For example, they can rotate a shape, reflect an image, or translate a pattern to see how it transforms.