Programming as Language and Manipulative for Second-Grade Mathematics

Abstract This article reports on an exploration of how second-graders can learn mathematics through programming. We started from the theory that a suitably designed programming language serve children as for expressing and experimenting with mathematical ideas processes in order to do thereby, appropriate tasks teaching, enjoy subject. is very different using computer teaching app or digital medium exploration. Children tackled genuine puzzles – problems which they did not already have pre-learned solution. So far, we built four microworlds tested them diverse population well over three hundred children. The focus most critical second-grade content (as mandated state standards), let pick up all key contexts make ‘obvious’ (to maintain mathematics) suppress other distractions minimize overhead teachers students microworlds. Because see results actions articulate (in language, Snap ! ), evaluate their methods solutions themselves. feedback purely outcome, happy sad sounds computer. Notably, nearly showed intense engagement, some choosing even outside time. Teachers spontaneously reported this well, special mention whom found hard engage regular lessons. report our experiments observations spirit sharing promoting more research.