Integrating Writing into the Mathematics Curriculum Audrey Simmons Greater Houston Area Writing Project Woodrow Wilson Elementary 4 th grade - HISD

How do you feel about Math?

Why Include Literacy in my Math Class? Develop students’ mathematical thinking and reasoning. “Writing encourages students to examine their ideas and reflect on what they have learned… When students write about mathematics, they are actively involved in thinking and learning about mathematics.” -Marilyn Burns

Why Include Literacy in my Math Class? Teach across the curriculum. “As the curriculum becomes more tightly packed with each new mandate and trend, it’s important that our students be able to connect the pieces into meaningful wholes… Writing can do that.” -Marilane Dusterhoff

Why Include Literacy in my Math Class? Assess students more accurately and adjust instructional strategies. “Writing not only benefits children by contributing to their learning, it benefits teachers by helping them assess what their students are learning.” -Marilyn Burns

How can I Include Literacy in my Math Class? 1. Problem Solving Plan 2. Response Journals 3. Student-created Story Problems

Problem Solving Plan 1. Plan it (sketch) 2. Solve it 3. Explain it in words

Response Journals Joan Countryman  HOW? 1. Feelings about math 2. Technical vocabulary (using word wall) 3. Brain teasers 4. Challenge problems 5. Read alouds  WHY? 1. Increase confidence 2. Increase participation 3. Encourage independence 4. Monitor progress 5. Authentic assessment 6. Develop relationships

WRITE YOUR OWN WORD PROBLEM! 1. Use any mathematical concept you choose. 2. Give your word problem a summer setting. 3. Provide four answer choices. 4. Draw a picture to accompany your problem. 5. Solve your own problem on the back of your poster.

Bibliography Books Marilyn Burns: Writing in Math Class: A Resource for Grades 2-8. Joan Countryman: Writing to Learn. John Scieszka & Lane Smith: Math Curse Journal Articles Sarah Berenson: Changing assessment practices in science and mathematics. Marilane Dusterhoff: Why write in mathematics?