Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 5, 2025

Multimedia Battery for Assessment of Cognitive and Basic Skills in Mathematics BM-PROMA
Published on: August 28, 2021
Relation between general vocabulary knowledge and early numeracy competence: The mediating role of mathematical
Jana Chi-San Ho1, Sum Kwing Cheung2, Catherine McBride3
1School of Education, The University of Saint Joseph (Macao), Macau.
Abstract:
Early language skills are considered important precursors of early mathematical development. Prior research extensively explored the association between vocabulary and early numeracy. However, few studies have delved into the specific impact of mathematical language on this association. This study investigated the extent to which mathematical language mediates the relation between general vocabulary knowledge and early numeracy competence. A total of 180 Hong Kong kindergarteners (mean age = 4.66 years, SD = 0.63) were individually tested on their Chinese general vocabulary knowledge, mathematical language, and early numeracy competence online. Path analysis showed that when children's age and family income were statistically controlled, general vocabulary knowledge had a direct positive association with early numeracy competence as well as an indirect link through mathematical language. The findings highlighted the pivotal role of mathematical vocabulary in the learning of mathematics in early childhood. Future directions for examining the role of mathematical language in early numeracy development across different languages are further discussed.
Related Concept Videos
Language and Cognition
Language Development
The critical period for language acquisition suggests that the ability to acquire language is at its peak early in life. As people age, this proficiency decreases. Language development begins very...
Relation between Mathematical Equations and Block Diagrams
The Nativist Approach
Natural and Artificial Concepts
Numerical Calculations
The solution to a problem is obtained using different methods. While manually solving algebraic symbols is one of the most common methods, the graphical method is often preferred. Computers...

