MATRICS: YOU’RE STILL STANDING… NOW KEEP ON WALKING RIGHT TO THE END

One-to-One Correspondence At Crawford International, our commitment to providing an education that nurtures not only academic excellence but also holistic development begins with foundational concepts that will serve students throughout their lives. One such concept is one-to-one correspondence, an essential building block in early mathematics education. This skill is fundamental to numeracy and mathematical understanding, yet it often remains underappreciated despite its pivotal role in a student’s cognitive and mathematical development. In this blog, we will explore what one-to-one correspondence is, why it is crucial in early childhood education, and how Crawford’s innovative approach fosters this skill in our students from the moment they step into our classrooms. What is One-to-One Correspondence? One-to-one correspondence is the ability to match one object with one number and vice versa. It’s a seemingly simple yet profound concept, where students learn to match numbers to quantities, such as counting the number of blocks and assigning a number to each block, ensuring each number corresponds to one object. This skill forms the foundation of all mathematical operations, from basic counting to more complex concepts like addition and subtraction. According to educational theorist Jean Piaget, students’ cognitive development unfolds in stages, and the mastery of basic skills like one-to-one correspondence represents an early achievement in a student’s understanding of the world (Piaget, 1952). At Crawford International, we recognise that the development of this skill is not just a numerical exercise but a crucial step in shaping the logical reasoning and problem-solving abilities of our students. The Role of One-to-One Correspondence in Mathematics One-to-one correspondence goes far beyond simple counting; it enables students to understand the very essence of numbers and their relationships to quantities. In early childhood education, this concept forms the foundation of numeracy, providing students with the tools to solve problems, understand patterns, and engage in mathematical thinking. By mastering one-to-one correspondence, students gain the ability to recognise that numbers are not just abstract symbols but have tangible value and meaning in relation to objects. Crawford International’s approach to mathematics ensures that these foundational skills are developed from an early age through purposeful learning experiences. As students master one-to-one correspondence, they gain the necessary skills to progress to more complex mathematical concepts such as addition, subtraction, and even the beginning stages of multiplication and division. As Piaget’s theory suggests, students must first grasp basic concepts like number conservation and one-to-one correspondence before progressing to more advanced ideas (Piaget, 1952). Activities to Reinforce One-to-One Correspondence At Crawford International, we understand that mastery of one-to-one correspondence cannot be achieved through rote learning alone. Instead, we create engaging, hands-on activities that allow students to experience the concept in a tangible and meaningful way. Our teachers use a blend of traditional and innovative methods to reinforce this skill. Some of the key activities that students engage with include: Counting Objects : Using concrete materials such as blocks or counting beads, students practice assigning one number to each object, reinforcing the direct link between numbers and quantities. Sorting and Grouping Games : By sorting objects by size, colour, or shape and counting each group, students apply one-to-one correspondence in real-life scenarios. This helps solidify their understanding of quantity and number. Interactive Digital Tools : Crawford classrooms incorporate technology, using educational apps and games that reinforce counting and number recognition. These tools add an interactive element that enhances the learning experience. Number Line Exploration : Through physical number lines, students can physically move objects along a sequence, deepening their understanding of numerical order and relationships. These activities are designed not just to teach counting, but to instil a deeper understanding of how numbers relate to the world around them. This is central to Crawford’s philosophy of learning, where every student’s personalised mathematical journey is guided by an environment that encourages exploration, discovery, and mastery. Signs a Student Understands One-to-One Correspondence Mastery of one-to-one correspondence is crucial for a student’s mathematical development, but how can we tell if they truly understand the concept? At Crawford, we use careful observation and targeted assessments to track our students’ progress. Some signs that indicate a student has mastered one-to-one correspondence include: Accurate Counting : A student can count objects without skipping or doubling up on numbers. They are able to move through the counting process fluidly, assigning one number to each object. Recognition of Quantities : Students understand that a number represents a fixed quantity and can connect numbers to sets of objects, ensuring that no object is left uncounted or counted twice. Problem-Solving Abilities : A student begins to use one-to-one correspondence to solve simple mathematical problems, such as grouping objects or counting the number of items in a set. This skill forms the bedrock of more complex problem-solving. At Crawford, we believe in a personalised approach to education, where every student’s developmental milestones are celebrated. By observing these key indicators, we are able to provide tailored support to help students advance from mastering basic counting to exploring more sophisticated mathematical concepts. The Benefits of Mastering One-to-One Correspondence in Early Education Mastering one-to-one correspondence in early education is not just a milestone in a student’s mathematical development, it is a stepping stone to a wide range of cognitive, social, and academic benefits. Some of the key advantages include: Building a Strong Mathematical Foundation : By mastering one-to-one correspondence, students are equipped with the tools to understand more complex mathematical operations, giving them a head start in their academic journey. Developing Cognitive Skills : The ability to count and match numbers to quantities strengthens students’ cognitive skills, including memory, focus, and problem-solving. Enhancing Confidence and Independence : As students develop their mathematical skills, they gain confidence in their abilities, which encourages independent learning and self-motivation. Real-World Application : One-to-one correspondence extends beyond the classroom. Students use this skill daily in activities such as setting the table, sharing toys, and organising their belongings, preparing them for future tasks and responsibilities. The journey from understanding one-to-one correspondence to mastering advanced mathematical concepts is an essential part of our curriculum. Through thoughtful, engaging, and innovative approaches, Crawford International is preparing the next generation of students to thrive in an increasingly complex world.

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: DYLAN BIZJAK Crawford International Sandton From the classrooms of Crawford International Sandton to the forefront of aeronautical engineering in the Netherlands, Dylan Bizjak’s journey is one of ambition, resilience and innovation . Pursuing a Passion for Engineering After matriculating in 2019, Dylan initially pursued Aeronautical Engineering at Wits University. However, six months into his studies, a new opportunity emerged, one that would take him beyond South Africa’s borders. He secured a place at Inholland University of Applied Sciences in Delft, Netherlands, where he embraced the challenge of international study, even navigating his first year remotely due to the pandemic. Now a graduate with a BSc in Aeronautical Engineering (2024), Dylan has stepped into the professional world, joining Eve Reverse, a pioneering start-up dedicated to climate-positive innovation. What began as an internship in his final year evolved into a full-time role as a Research and Development Engineer, where he contributes to the creation of sustainable, carbon-negative materials. His proudest achievement? Playing a key role in the development of the Eve Dry Tile, an innovative flax fibre material designed to reduce emissions and waste in manufacturing. Achievements at Crawford International Sandton Gareth Beach Award (2019) – Recognised for bravery, dedication, self-development and outstanding achievement in swimming. Sportsman of the Year (2019) – Acknowledged for excellence in swimming, basketball and boxing.  Reflections on Crawford Dylan credits his time at Crawford for preparing him for both academic and personal success on the global stage. “Crawford’s approach equips you for university and beyond, whether in South Africa or internationally. It’s not just about academics but about becoming a well-rounded critical thinker and team player. Exposure to diverse cultures, teamwork, individuality and taking responsibility for my outcomes were invaluable lessons I carried with me.” Words of Wisdom To his younger self, Dylan would say: “Step out of your comfort zone sooner. Growth happens when you challenge yourself. Leaving home was tough, but the personal and professional growth was worth every stumble along the way.” Dylan’s story is a testament to courage, hard work and the power of embracing the unknown. From South Africa to the Netherlands, he is proving that the sky isn’t the limit, it is just the beginning.

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A Guide To Parent Teacher Meetings The new academic term has just started a few weeks ago, and families with school-going children are settling into their routines. However, as students transition back to the classroom, another important aspect of the school calendar looms, parent teacher meetings. While these meetings are integral to nurturing strong collaboration between families and schools, they can also bring a mix of emotions, from curiosity to unease, for parents. In South Africa, where over 12 million students attend public and private schools (Department of Basic Education, 2023), the importance of such interactions cannot be overstated. These sessions offer invaluable insights into a child’s academic progress, social development, and overall well-being. What Are Parent Teacher Meetings? Parent teacher meetings are structured conversations between parents and their child’s teachers, aimed at discussing the student’s academic performance, behaviour, and overall development. These meetings create an opportunity for open communication, ensuring that both parties can collaborate effectively to support the student’s educational journey. They are not just a platform for addressing concerns but also for celebrating achievements and setting shared goals. What Do They Entail at Crawford? At Crawford International, parent teacher meetings are designed to be more than just routine check-ins. They reflect our commitment to fostering strong partnerships with families. During these sessions, parents meet with teachers to gain a holistic view of their student’s progress, not only academically but also socially and emotionally. Teachers share personalised feedback, highlight areas of growth, and discuss strategies to address challenges. These meetings are tailored to align with our ethos of developing well-rounded students, emphasising collaboration to ensure every child reaches their potential. How Often Are They? Parent teacher meetings at Crawford typically occur once per term, although additional sessions may be scheduled based on specific needs or requests. Regularity ensures that parents stay informed about their child’s journey throughout the academic year. These consistent touchpoints help to build trust and maintain a steady flow of communication between parents and teachers. How Best Should Parents Prepare for Them? Preparation is key to making the most of parent teacher meetings. Here are a few practical tips: Review Reports and Notes – before the meeting, review any recent academic reports, test results, or communication from the school. This provides a foundation for meaningful discussions. Prepare Questions – jot down specific questions or concerns you want to address. For example, ask about areas where your child excels or struggles and how you can support them at home. Engage with Your Child – have a conversation with your child about their experiences at school. Understanding their perspective can provide valuable context for the meeting. Be Open-Minded – approach the meeting with a collaborative mindset. Remember, the goal is to work together with the teachers to support your child’s growth. Take Notes – during the meeting, take notes on key points discussed, including recommendations from teachers. This ensures you can follow through on agreed actions. Parent teacher meetings are more than a requirement; they are an investment in a child’s future. By approaching these sessions with preparation and a collaborative spirit, parents can play an active role in shaping their child’s educational journey. As families across South Africa embrace this vital part of the school experience, let’s work together to make each interaction meaningful and impactful.