Although many techniques used in English class will be useful in math, other techniques and approaches will need to be specific to writing about mathematics. Writing is a complex process that requires effort and patience. It takes time for students to develop the skill and stamina to write about mathematics. We have used three types of writing prompts to engage students in writing. In the beginning of the school year, we have found that affective, open-ended prompts that encourage students to write about their feelings and opinions regarding mathematics are very helpful when introducing writing in math lessons.
Students are eager to state their opinions on topics such as the use of calculators in math class.
Next we use prompts that ask students to write about familiar mathematical ideas . These kinds of prompts fit in well during the fall, when many teachers devote time to reviewing mathematical concepts from previous grades. By winter term it is important to ask students to write about more advanced math concepts . At this point in the school year the writing prompts can reinforce and extend students' understanding of the mathematical concepts that are being taught. As the wise use of time is always a challenge in teaching, we have found that it is critical to integrate writing prompts with mathematical concepts being studied.