Hello! I have some initial thoughts on using literacy in a math classroom...
My first thought was, "Yeah, right..." But then I let the topic simmer a bit and thought, "Hey, this could work." I really wanted to explore this idea and avenues to incorporate literacy in a math classroom. The real thought is that as a caring educator, I want to know that my students are making intellectual gains in all subjects of their education, not just math. This includes literacy.
When I thought about literacy in math at first, I also thought, "How's that supposed to work?" But, with everything we have been learning so far and seeing examples used in class, I realize now that it is possible and necessary. In my experience, I too often see math classes with didactic teaching and too many students getting lost by the wayside. More so, in real life, students will not be given nice formulas and equations to solve. Rather they will have real problems embedded in real life where literacy is key to figuring that out. There was the example of students blogging step-by-step how they would solve a problem. Then students comment. Also, I read the example of students writing their own word problems. Understanding what word problems are asking is so important. So, I can see how literacy in math is key. What are some ideas you have had for literacy in math?
ReplyDeleteJanelle, I could not agree more with your first thoughts on using literacy in a math classroom. You were right though, as I let it sink in and put down my walls about it I started to see it more and more. One thing I am still a little skeptical about is the idea of the picture and chapter book. I think that it would have to be a VERY good fit, whereas some of the options I had for chapter books for my thematic unit were a huge stretch. One idea that I liked a lot however was implementing articles into the math classroom. I never thought of this and I actually found some that could put a very interesting twist on some lessons in the class. And finally, as you stated, it is our job as educators at a whole to improve our students in every way possible – and this means a joint effort by all!
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