Math in the Middle Institute Partnership
Date of this Version
7-2009
Abstract
In this action research study of my classroom of eighth grade mathematics, I investigated the impact of oral and written communication on students’ problem-solving skills. I collected data to see how emphasizing oral and written communication affected small-group work, usage of precise mathematical vocabulary, and student attitudes toward mathematics. Oral and written communication allowed students to periodically evaluate their own learning and their involvement in math class. I discovered that the vast majority of students enjoyed working in small groups, and when they got to work in small groups, they felt more confident in their solutions to problems. Data on the use of precise mathematical vocabulary showed increased student awareness in the importance of its usage. Student attitudes toward mathematics remained positive, and students grew more confident in their mathematical skills throughout the research. As a result of this research, I plan to continue the use of small-group work, provide instruction in precise mathematical vocabulary, and emphasize oral and written communication strategies.
Comments
Math in the Middle Institute Partnership, Action Research Project Report, In partial fulfillment of the MAT Degree. Department of Mathematics. University of Nebraska-Lincoln. July 2009.