COMMUNICATING
Communicating in math is about how students share their ideas, understandings, and solutions with others. When students explain their ideas clearly and listen to others, they understand better and think more deeply about math.
Communication can happen in different ways: speaking, drawing, building models, writing, or even using hand gestures. Communication also involves listening carefully to others’ ideas, questions, and solutions. Teachers help all students learn the language of math, which includes knowing and using appropriate words, symbols, and models.
Communicating in math helps students clarify their own thinking and identify any misunderstandings. They learn to make and defend mathematical arguments, which makes their reasoning skills stronger. When students give and receive helpful feedback, they see mistakes as chances to learn and get better at solving problems. When students talk about math, they learn to ask good questions that can lead to more learning.
Families play an important role in supporting math communication at home. Having math-related conversations improves students’ problem-solving and communication skills. It also builds a positive attitude towards math. You can support communication in math learning at home by:
- Encouraging your child to explain their thought processes by asking questions (e.g. Can you show me how you got that answer?)
- Making math part of everyday conversations (e.g. What shapes do you see during a walk?)
- Working on math problems together, sharing different strategies and approaches
- Incorporating math vocabulary into daily conversations (e.g. I see that you have 5 blocks and your sister has 9 blocks - 5 is less than 9)
Math is Fun Illustrated Mathematics Dictionary is an illustrated math dictionary with easy-to-understand definitions.
Same But Different Math offers engaging activities and games that emphasize problem-solving and communication. This resource aims to make math enjoyable and accessible to learners of all levels and helps students to connect concepts and form a deeper understanding of math.