I just read the article about using creative writing and literature in mathematics classes, and what stood out most to me was the point that not only do students enjoy it while utilizing math concepts and vocabulary in personally authentic and meaningful ways, but it is also a really good way for the teacher to assess student knowledge. The examples given made it clear that between the written story plots, descriptions, and graphics, students' mathematical misconceptions can be spotted to be addressed in instruction in ways just as effective as well-designed tests meant to identify misconceptions.
While thinking about mathematics and literature I was reminded of the mathematizing literature assignment from last quarter. I worked with a small group of 7th and 8th grade girls, and I read a children's storybook to them while we stopped periodically to discuss what math ideas stood out to them and what math they thought younger kids might pay attention to in these stories. It was quite an exciting endeavor as they considered so much of their own mathematical knowledge and fed off of one another's ideas.
I wonder how the 1st and 2nd graders I am working with in my main placement now might use creative writing in their mathematics studies.
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