Students can write a letter to tell a friend about something they have learned in mathematics class. This type of activity allows the students to consider mathematics for a new purpose. If letters are exchanged, then students learn from the thought processes of their peers. See figure 2.3 . 2.3 Having students keep journals in mathematics class is another way to facilitate communication and give them an opportunity to reflect on their learning.
Children can also create their own stories or books about mathematics.
This activity is within the reach of fourth graders and can include mathematics topics as options for development. Many children's books present interesting problems and illustrate how other children solve them. Through these books students see mathematics in a different context while they use reading as a form of communication. Some of the books most directly linked to mathematics give children insights into the history of mathematics and the development of mathematical ideas. Materials children write themselves can be part of a reading activity and shared with class members.