Encouraging Writing

Finding ways to get students to write about mathematics has played a pivotal role in my development and growth as a math teacher.  Mathematical writing challenges students to express their ideas clearly and efficiently; it forces students to stop thinking of mathematics as merely equations and answers; and it opens a new and unexpected dialogue between math teacher and student.

Why write in math class?

1. Writing is a fundamental mathematical skill.
2. Writing is an indispensable professional skill.
3. Writing helps understand students better.

Having students write in math journals and providing them with an engaging way of going through lessons and activities by providing them a book they can keep equations and personal reflections in is a good way to test and see development in students.

Interactive notebooks and iBooks can help students realize their potential when it comes to mathematics, making curriculum relevant to the students, using writing challenges in projects and expertise allows students for themselves in to the text book and dive into math with a passion.