ABSTRACT
This part introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters. The part looks at some of the important precursors to mathematical thinking that grow from the tools and processes. It explains sensory awareness of objects, which is relevant for all pupils, but particularly those at the earliest levels of learning. The part progresses through understanding of size, quantities, sequence and value, and head towards counting, symbolic representation and thinking about number, which some of our special pupils come to use. It discusses how typical children develop their understanding of number. The part outlines the sub-skills that call 'the parts of counting' in more detail because many children with special needs struggle with them. Number sense is instrumental in helping children develop a fund of early ideas about quantities.
