The ability to mentally understand that 1 + 3 = 4 and 4 - 3 = 1 occurs in which stage of cognitive development?

The correct answer is choice C: Concrete operations stage.

Choice A rationale:

The preoperational stage, which occurs roughly between ages 2 and 7, is characterized by egocentrism, animism, and a lack of conservation. Children in this stage struggle with understanding that quantities can remain the same even if their appearance changes. For instance, they might think that pouring water from a tall glass into a short, wide glass somehow changes the amount of water. This stage does not demonstrate the mental understanding required for the examples given in the question.

Choice B rationale:

The intuitive thought stage, which typically spans from ages 4 to 7, is marked by increased symbolic thinking but still lacks the capacity for logical and systematic reasoning. Children in this stage might be able to count and perform basic arithmetic, but they struggle with more complex operations and understanding the underlying principles of mathematical operations. This stage is not where the ability to understand the given math operations is firmly established.

Choice C rationale:

The concrete operations stage, which encompasses ages 7 to 11, is characterized by the development of logical and systematic thinking. Children in this stage are capable of understanding basic mathematical principles and operations, such as conservation of quantity and simple arithmetic. They can mentally manipulate numbers and understand that reversing an operation will yield the original quantity. Therefore, this stage is when the ability to understand that 1 + 3 = 4 and 4 - 3 = 1 occurs.

Choice D rationale:

The formal operations stage, typically beginning around age 11, is characterized by abstract and hypothetical thinking. This is when adolescents and adults can engage in complex reasoning and consider multiple possibilities and outcomes. The given math operations are not the focus of this stage; rather, it pertains to more advanced cognitive abilities like hypothetical problem-solving and deductive reasoning.

The correct answer is choice A.

Choice A rationale:

Drawing is the most appropriate activity for developing fine motor skills in school-age children. Drawing involves precise hand movements, control of a writing instrument, and attention to detail. These skills contribute to fine motor skill development and hand-eye coordination.

Choice B rationale:

Singing is not directly related to fine motor skill development. While it can promote cognitive and social development, it does not require the same level of fine motor control as activities like drawing or writing.

Choice C rationale:

Swimming is a gross motor activity that focuses more on large muscle groups and overall coordination. It does not specifically target the refinement of fine motor skills.

Choice D rationale:

Soccer is also a gross motor activity that involves running, kicking, and coordination with teammates. While it promotes physical fitness and coordination, it does not emphasize the fine motor control required for activities like drawing.