Monograph No. 10
Communication, Communication, Communication, Communication in the MATHEMATICS CLASSROOM
October 1992
Publication of the Mathematics Council of The Alberta Teachers’ Association
7 – 13
Chapter 1 – Writing to Communicate Mathematics
Yvonne Pothier
The strength of this chapter is in the richness and power of the example episodes Yvonne Pothier presents as concrete examples of the value of writing in mathematics learning. She has grouped the writing examples under six categories:
- Writing about a concept’s meaning
- Describing a process
- Responding to a question
- Reporting on an activity
- Writing problems
- Writing solutions to problems
Dr. Pothier concludes her chapter by stating that many benefits can be derived from these writing activities. I would go further and suggest that one of the hidden benefits of writing to learn mathematics is the potential of the activity for both formative and summative evaluation, particularly when a portfolio is used. The writing illustrated here provides information expressing children’s understanding of mathematics and would provide opportunities for others (such as teachers or parents) to gain insight into children’s grasp of mathematics.