The aim of this study was to propose a new conceptualization of early number sense. Six-year-old students' (n = 204) number sense was tracked from the beginning of Grade 1 through the beginning of Grade 2. Data analysis suggested that elementary arithmetic, conventional arithmetic, and algebraic arithmetic contributed to the latent construct early…

A sophisticated and flexible understanding of the equals sign (=) is important for arithmetic competence and for learning further mathematics, particularly algebra. Research has identified two common conceptions held by children: the equals sign as an operator and the equals sign as signaling the same value on both sides of the equation. We argue…