Students learn mathematics more effectively and more deeply when reading and writing is directed at learning mathematics. Although reading and writing in mathematics may necessitate more skills and practice to master, the mathematical learning derived from reading and writing mathematics far outweighs the burden it places on teachers and students.…

It seems that everyone is using science journals or notebooks lately. As middle school science teachers, the authors use science journals as a tool to enhance students' knowledge and understanding of content and reinforce students' writing skills. Here they share how they use science journals to motivate students to write about science in middle…

Presents a technique used during the first five minutes of class that elicits from students written responses to questions of their understanding of mathematical content or their attitudes toward their mathematics class specifically, or mathematics in general. Provides sample questions from algebra, geometry, and general mathematics. (MDH)

Researchers have reported that children's writing about mathematical concepts can give teachers valuable insight into students' mathematical understanding. There are, however, factors which place constraints on the adequacy of written products to reveal the quality and degree of children's conceptual understanding. This study examined the…

This book provides practical strategies and tools for assessing and teaching even the most hard to reach English language learners across the content areas. Syrja offers educators the latest information on working with ELLs (including using formative assessments) and provides a wealth of classroom-tested models and measures. These tools have…

Discusses the value of writing assignments in mathematics instruction. Advocates informal, lengthy, nongraded writing as the best form of learning. Encourages the use of a learning log by students which is reviewed by both teachers and fellow students. Provides examples of short in-class mathematics writing assignments. (PAA)

Presented is a review of the research on the benefits of using writing to evaluate students' understanding of mathematics. Results indicate that student writing provides a rich resource for assessing student understanding, can have a direct influence in teachers' instructional practices, and can positively influence student-teacher interaction…

Reports results of a four-year experiment integrating writing into secondary mathematics classrooms. Discusses (1) the development of a pedagogical model for mathematics journal keeping; and (2) the practicalities of implementing journal writing in the curriculum. Includes sample journal entries. (12 references) (MDH)

This teacher's guide was developed to help teachers improve learning by incorporating writing into mathematics instruction. The document is divided into three sections. The issue of why writing should be utilized in the mathematics classroom is addressed in the first section. The topics discussed include why students should utilize writing in…

Explores issues on instruction and evaluation of students who are nonnative speakers (NNSs) of English in institutions employing Writing across the Curriculum programs. The authors examine faculty expectations of NNS writing and NNS performance on Writing Proficiency Exams and conclude that these students are held to a double standard. (15…

Ninth-grade students' (n=90) responses to impromptu, in-class writing assignments were examined to evaluate students' understanding of mathematical concepts. Participating teachers benefited by seeing how students' writings may reveal misconceptions concerning mathematical concepts, skills, and generalizations. (MDH)