Why use writing to teach math? Because by making the thinking process concrete (i.e., having students articulate their thinking in journals), writing gives students and teachers valuable information about how students are learning math.

In contrast to English class, where carefully edited papers that present a logical argument or well-crafted story are the goal, the goal of writing in mathematics class is to provide students with opportunities to explain their thinking about mathematical ideas and then to re-examine their thoughts by reviewing their writing. In a math class, then, the emphasis is on writing to learn. Students' writing can be viewed as a "working draft" that is always ready to be reviewed, refined and edited. Correct spelling and punctuation are secondary issues.

Given the difference in goals (polished manuscripts versus working drafts), teaching students to use writing in math class is not the same as teaching writing in English class. Although many techniques used in English class will be useful in math, other techniques and approaches will need to be specific to writing about mathematics. To help you begin, we have provided two lesson plans designed to orient students to the concept of writing in math class, one that teaches the term "metacognition"-thinking about thinking-and the value of being able to articulate their thinking; and a second lesson that has students evaluate sample journal entries as to how successful they are at illustrating the thinking process.

Writing is a complex process that requires effort and patience. It takes time for students to develop the skill and stamina to write about mathematics. We have used three types of writing prompts to engage students in writing. In the beginning of the school year, we have found that affective, open-ended prompts that encourage students to write about their feelings and opinions regarding mathematics are very helpful when introducing writing in math lessons. Students are eager to state their opinions on topics such as the use of calculators in math class. Next we use prompts that ask students to write about familiar mathematical ideas. These kinds of prompts fit in well during the fall, when many teachers devote time to reviewing mathematical concepts from previous grades. By winter term it is important to ask students to write about more advanced math concepts. At this point in the school year the writing prompts can reinforce and extend students' understanding of the mathematical concepts that are being taught.

As the wise use of time is always a challenge in teaching, we have found that it is critical to integrate writing prompts with mathematical concepts being studied. Both teachers and students need to experience writing as a means of promoting mathematical understanding.

This web site will guide you along as you begin to incorporate the use of writing into your daily teaching of math. Writing will enhance students' understanding of math as they learn to articulate their thought processes in solving math problems and learning math concepts. In addition, students will learn that there is no one "right way" to approach a math problem. Their self-esteem will benefit as they learn that success in mathematics can be achieved through their own unique and varied thought processes. In turn, the information gained from the journals will help you pinpoint learning difficulties and catch them in their early stages.