Thursday, August 19, 2010
Writing in Mathematics
Teaching students to communicate mathematically is essential if you wish to raise any standardized test scores. The last few years I have tried to include more justify your response questions into my classroom. Why? When a student can communicate their mathematical ideas clearly many positive things occur - it deepens the meaning of the concepts they are learning, it helps students retain information, and it strengthens their use of proper mathematical vocabulary and proper notation. Of course, students struggle with writing their mathematical explanations. It is important that the classroom teacher not give up on this endeavor. To help the students, model the written communication on a regular basis. I have found studying and analyzing responses to released state test questions and released AP questions have assisted me and my students greatly.
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I think this is a great approach to take toward improving test scores. It is often difficult for students to communicate using math terminology or language. You are really providing a great service to them by including this in your curriculum. Way to go!
ReplyDeleteJeannie~
ReplyDeleteOur district really struggles with writing constructed responses on the Criterion-Reference Test. Writing in math class each day would definitely help them when the testing window opens.
It was great to be on your blog alliance and get wonderful helpful hints about teaching math. Take care and best of luck with finishing your master's degree from Lesley!
Thanks Kacey! Hope you have a great school year and best of luck to you with finishing your master's degree!
ReplyDeleteJeannie,
ReplyDeleteI am with Kacey on our kids struggle with constructed responses. I only administer the test and don't teach math. I think this is a great site. Thanks
Hope we did ok on the debate. Thanks again for all your help. ~Beth~