Improved writing and higher grades of first-semester calculus students (n=25) were the result of a variety of written assignments used in the course. Includes sample writing assignments. (MKR)

Examines the various issues surrounding the implementation of journal writing in an undergraduate linear algebra course. Identifies the benefits of incorporating journal writing into an undergraduate mathematics course, which are supported with students' comments from their journals and their reflections on the process. Contains 14 references.…

Describes an assignment in which students were asked to identify a mathematical concept that had been difficult for them to master and to write a paper that investigated and described the historical development of the concept. Students reported that the assignment, though difficult, was very valuable in helping them understand their difficulties.…

Provides examples of geometry writing projects and discusses goals and difficulties of using these projects. Explores the process of grading and allowing student revisions of these projects by using a time-saving grading method. (Author/ASK)

Describes the specific courses in a sequence along with how the writing has been implemented in each course. Provides ideas for how to efficiently handle the additional paper load so students receive the necessary feedback while keeping the grading time reasonable. (Author/ASK)

Describes the use of formal writing and speaking in upper level geometry and analysis courses. Includes student journals, students reviewing written proofs with a student writing associate, and simulated conferences. Includes a 16-item list of possible topics. (Author/MKR)

Describes a reading and writing course about the fourth dimension that involves readings selected from both mathematical and non-mathematical literature, frequent class discussion, several invited speakers from disciplines other than mathematics, and some hands-on and group activities. (Author/ASK)

Describes how constructing concept maps and writing accompanying interpretive essays can be used in a Calculus I course to improve students' understanding of important concepts and help teachers assess students' knowledge. This combined approach allows students to explicitly communicate their knowledge and a chance to view mathematics as a…

Revisions of a mathematics textbook for nonmajors made by mathematics and mathematics education majors as part of a writing in mathematics course were reviewed by a mathematician and a writing expert to determine how these two groups perceive their audience. Comparison of the reviews indicate that mathematics writers should recognize students'…

Short essay questions are introduced into the calculus course as a technique to involve students with their own learning. Provides (1) instructions to the student for writing the report; (2) results of using the technique; and (3) reasons for using writing in mathematics classes. (MDH)

Reports on the differences in two sections of a college course on differential equations. Results on a common examination showed that writing assignments substituted for traditional homework assignments did not improve test performance. However, survey results indicated that students felt the writing assignments, in lieu of additional homework,…

Presents a method of transforming 15 mathematics students' questions expressing confusion and frustration into activities that (1) engage the hidden meaning behind the question; (2) open the dialog with students, and (3) provide a chance to interact with students on crucial issues of what is at stake in learning mathematics. (MDH)

Describes several techniques that have been used in a variety of college mathematics classes to shift the classroom experience from instructor-centered to student-centered. Discusses specific applications of these techniques to remedial mathematics, precalculus, liberal arts mathematics, calculus, and geometry classroom settings. (40 references)…

Describes an intermediate level, college geometry course that is designated as both writing and speaking intensive. Suggests methods that utilize writing and speaking activities to enhance student learning, and discusses student reactions to the course. (nine references) (JJK)

Describes the collegewide academic program at Maharishi International University that incorporates speaking and writing into the undergraduate curriculum. The impact of the key features of this successful program upon the mathematics curriculum are discussed in detail. (JJK)