Writing in Math

There are a variety of ways to incorporate writing in math class.  Experts on the topic divide writing in mathematics into two categories:

(1) Writing to learn and

(2) Writing to assess learning.

Writing to Learn

When using a Writing to Learn strategy, student will…

• Deepen & Extend Knowledge

• Reflect on their own learning

• Actively engaged in thinking about mathematics

• Communicate mathematical ideas

• Provide feedback for instructional purposes

   Writing to Assess Learning

When using a Writing to Assess Learning strategy, student will…

• Solve math problems

• Explain a mathematical idea or concept

• Make a conjecture

• Defend an ideas

• Critique the reasoning of others

Types of Writing in Math Class

The type of writing assignment used in a mathematics lesson is connected with the purpose of the writing assignment as well as the objective of your lesson.

In her article, “Writing in Math,” Marilyn Burn’s suggested four categories of writing assignments to use in a mathematics classroom. The category of writing assignments for math are, (1) journals or logs, (2) solving math problems, (3) explaining mathematical ideas, and (4) writing about the learning processes (Burns, 2004). Each category of writing assignments provides different insights into student learning while at the same time providing a variety of ways to incorporate writing into the mathematics classroom.

The information included here provides examples of each of the 4 categories of writing assignments for mathematics classrooms, a note about grading writing assignments, and instructional strategies that will support the implementation of writing in math class.

 Common Core State Standards

The California Common Core State Standards for Mathematics can address why and how we use writing in math class. As we infuse the 8 Standards for Mathematical Practice with the content standards, we will see many opportunities to incorporate writing within the mathematics classroom. Students need to be able to communicate not only their only thinking, but be able to critique the thinking of their classmates. While participating in both oral discussion and written work, students need to use language that is precise and language that clearly communicates their ideas. Writing can be used as a tool to reflect and refine student thinking in order to make sense of problems.

For many of us, we will be taking a leap to include writing within our math class. However, writing is a powerful tool that can impact the teaching and learning in math classroom. 

Challenge... So, let’s take the challenge! Read through the list of ways to incorporate writing into your math classroom. Try one writing strategy in your math class this week!

Strategies for Using Writing in Math Class

Journals and Learning Logs

Purpose – creates an ongoing record of what students are doing and learning in math class.

Biography & Autobiography

• Beginning of the Year: “Write your Math Autobiography”
• End of the Year: “What did you learn about math [this year]?

   Reflective Prompts

• Write about what you did in math class today.
• What did you learn?
• Describe what was easy and what was difficult for you.
• What are you confused by?
• What I Know…
• What I am wondering about …
• What I am not sure about …

Solving Math Problems

Purpose: Open-ended math problems can allow students a variety of entry points into a problem, provide multiple solution paths, and can connect to the real-world.

Examples:

• Compare and Contrast
• Convince someone that … [170 is an even number – not just that 0 is even so the entire number is even]
• Error Analysis – analyze common misunderstandings
• Problem of the Week
• Constructed Response
• Performance Task

Explaining Mathematical Ideas

Purpose – for students to demonstrate understanding of a concept and provide the teacher with information to guide instruction.

Examples:

• Explain XXX and give an example: Explain what equally likely means and give an example.
•  (In the middle of a unit) What do you know about fractions so far?
• Why does your answer make sense?
•  Explain how you know …
• Justify your answer
• Write a word problem that matches [a math expression]
• Use words, pictures, or numbers to show …
• Error Analysis – analyze common misunderstandings
• Formal Writing – Research Project & Reports

Writing About the Learning Process

Purpose – to focus on the general aspect of students’ learning

Examples:

What was your favorite (or least favorite) activity in this unit?

Write about the qualities of a good problem-solver.

Write directions to an activity (i.e. A game you played in class).