EDUC4105

I personally like the idea of teaching Mathematics as a language, perhaps not in isolation, but by highlighting differences between the English we are used to using (ordinary English or OE in the reading) and Mathematical English (ME). I think this would greatly enhance student comprehension of word problems and help them feel less intimidated by ME. The real question for mine is not whether to teach the language explicitly, but how to do it. Do we set aside time to treat ME specifically or is there effective methods to incorporate metalanguage in classrooms regularly (or every lesson, as is suggested)?

It was interesting to read that English is one of the most misunderstood languages and also that ME adds further complications to this language as well. I’ve never really thought about whether it would be easier for mathematics to be taught and learned in a foreign language, and by the evidence in the reading it appears to be the case!

The point made about errors in textbooks is a good one for students to be aware of too if some of their learning is done through textbooks. Students should read the questions critically and acknowledge the possibility of typos or incorrect answers in textbook exercises.