UC Berkeley

Reasoning ability supports the development of mathematics proficiency, as demonstrated by correlational and longitudinal evidence, and yet this skill is not emphasized in traditional elementary mathematics curricula. We propose that targeting reasoning skills from elementary school onward could help more students succeed in advanced mathematics courses. Here, we review the links between reasoning and mathematics, discuss the neural basis and development of reasoning ability, and identify promising school curricula. © 2014 Elsevier GmbH.