Writing in Math

Author: Burns, M.
Publisher: Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD)
Publication Date: 2004, October
Journal: Educational Leadership
Journal Volume: 62(2)
Available for purchase online at: http://www.ascd.org/publications/educational_leadership/oct04/vol62/num02/abstract.aspx#Writing_in_Math

Abstract (written by WestEd)

Marilyn Burns describes the value of incorporating writing into the mathematics classroom: it can inspire students to think and reflect more deeply about mathematics, it gives teachers insight into students' mathematical thinking and misconceptions, and it helps with the evaluation of student understanding. She describes four types of successful writing assignments for the math classroom: keeping journals or logs, solving math problems, explaining mathematical ideas, and writing about learning processes. She also provides practical suggestions and strategies for teachers wanting to incorporate writing into mathematics instruction.

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John Carr, Senior Research Associate for WestEd’s Center for Educational Equity, says, "Writing across the curriculum, reflection, and idea organization are common characteristics of truly improving schools — so says research. This article gives clear purpose and concrete strategies for having students write about mathematics."

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