The Incorporation of Reading and Writing in the Middle Grades Math Classroom

Abstract

Through observations during my training in teacher education, I have noticed a general student distaste, accompanied by lower achievement, in mathematics word problems. Among closer investigation, I noticed that this phenomenon was only a portion of a more general lack in achievement involving mathematical literacy. As a student-teacher, I decided to explore solutions to this problem, in hopes of identifying a strategic way to incorporate mathematical literacy into my lessons.

By planning a full year of the math curriculum, I have identified what I feel to be an appropriate balance of activities involving mathematical literacy. The product of this exploration is a portfolio of lessons that stresses mathematical literacy throughout every standard of the curriculum. This portfolio is accompanied by a written analysis of my initial research, my proposal of four general strategies for incorporating mathematical literacy into the curriculum, and the rationale for the choices that I made in my lesson planning.