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. Mathematics texts have not often been viewed as sources of reading material, but taking this perspective can add a valuable dimension to students' learning. Many schools are making efforts to include expository reading as an important part of reading instruction. Mathematics texts and other mathematics reading materials should certainly be included in these efforts.
Children learn from one another as they communicate.
Encouraging them to represent, talk and listen, write, and read facilitates meaningful learning. Attending to students' communications about their thinking also gives teachers a rich information base from which they can make sound instructional decisions.