New Foundation Phase initiative aims to build mathematical thinking from an early age

The South African Mathematics Foundation (SAMF) has launched a new initiative to expose Foundation Phase learners to mathematical problem-solving from an early age through the South African leg of the International Kangaroo Mathematics Competition for Grades 1 to 3. 

The competition is available in 10 official South African languages. SAMF believes this is an important step towards helping young learners build confidence in mathematics in a language they already understand. 

According to Prof Kerstin Jordaan, convener of the South African leg of the competition, mathematics should be viewed as a language that children start learning from a young age. 

“Mathematics has its own vocabulary, symbols, structure, and logic. Children learn best when they can explore these ideas in their home language while they are still building their understanding of the world around them,” said Jordaan. 

Research continues to show that mother tongue learning plays an important role in early mathematical development. Learners who receive instruction in a familiar language are better able to focus on understanding concepts and solving problems instead of first trying to translate unfamiliar words. 

Mathematics furthermore functions as a language with its own grammar, vocabulary, and symbolic system. For young learners, understanding mathematics is closely linked to language development and communication. 

SAMF says this is one of the reasons why problem-solving should begin in the Foundation Phase. Learners who develop reasoning skills early are often more confident when they encounter more advanced mathematics later in school. 

“We want children to see mathematics as something exciting and accessible. Problem-solving encourages curiosity, logical thinking, and creativity. These are skills that benefit learners far beyond the mathematics classroom,” Jordaan added. 

The International Kangaroo Mathematics Competition focuses on reasoning and thinking skills rather than routine calculation alone. Learners are encouraged to approach questions creatively and explore different ways to find solutions. 

Research further notes that several African languages have transparent number systems that help young learners understand number relationships more naturally. This strengthens the argument for introducing mathematical thinking in learners’ home languages during the early years of schooling. 

South Africa continues to face challenges with mathematics performance, particularly when learners transition to English instruction in later grades. Researchers often refer to the sharp decline in performance during Grade 4 as the “Grade 4 slump”. SAMF believes stronger Foundation Phase support can help address this challenge over time. 

The organisation believes that mathematics education should help learners build confidence, communication skills, and analytical thinking from an early age. 

SAMF encourages Foundation Phase teachers across South Africa to allow their learners to participate in the International Kangaroo Mathematics Competition and expose them to mathematical thinking and problem-solving from an early age. The current competition cycle closes on 28 May. Teachers and schools interested in participating can contact SAMF at [email protected] for more information.