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 * Literacy in Mathematics **

First, what is content-area literacy? Content-area literacy is the ability to use reading and writing to learn new content in a given discipline. It requires knowledge and understanding of language, terminology, structure and patterns of specific subject areas.
 * Literacy in Mathematics, what does it mean? **

To be literate in math, students should be able to: · Add, subtract, multiply and divide positive and negative integers, fractions, and decimals · Simplify fractions, use scientific notation, convert fractions to decimals · Measure length, area, volume, time, temperature · Given a formula and values, solve problem and solve for the unknown · Discuss properties of shapes and lines · Define and calculate probability · Solve word problems · Use functional math (math used in daily lives, e.g. using money, writing checks, keeping savings and checking accounts) · Correctly apply mathematical skills in a given situation

According to the //Curriculum and evaluation standards for school mathematics,// to be literate in math, students should be able to: · Value mathematics · Become mathematical problem-solvers · Reason mathematically · Communicate mathematically · Be confident in their ability in mathematics

**My Value of Literacy** Literacy is not only knowing how to read and write. It is finding information, analyzing that information, applying the information and communicating that information. My role as a teacher is to guide readers in order to help them understand the content and build meaning. The meaning is based on their prior knowledge and the purpose for reading. I know that it is important that my students and I accomplish all tasks that involve reading. Literacy is important in school and in life. As our students' reading comprehension is strengthened, their chances at becoming successful is greatened. Mathematics literacy is also important. Some math concepts are noticeable and applicable in the real world, while others are abstract and very seldom used outside the classroom. The standards of the NCTM refer to mathematics as a language and a form of communication. I believe my students need to become math literate as it relates to other content areas and apply it to real life situations.

Many adolescents have problems reading various print or non print texts. In my class the students will encounter textbooks, graphics, newspapers, workbooks/worksheets, websites, tables, graphs, spreadsheets, chapter books and educational magazines. Typical Problems: · Student reading level may be below reading level of printed materials · Students may not recall previous knowledge needed for new skills · Student may not fully define words (Ex. A square is not a shape with equal sides. A square is a shape with four equal sides and four equal angles) · Student may misinterpret words that have multiple meanings (Ex. Volume: (1) amount of space taken up by an object, (2) noise level of electronic equipment · Student may misinterpret words that are homophones (exact pronunciation, Ex. whole-hole, eight-ate, weigh-way)  · Student may not be able to recognize mathematical operations and their symbols (Ex. Sum means to add, “+”) · Student may not recognize the relationship between words, numbers, and symbols  · Student may not be able to fully interpret word problems, graphs, data tables  · Student may not be able to interpret directions clearly
 * Typical Problems **

=Strategies=
 * I plan to use these strategies to support literacy in my classroom. **

=Rationale= Teaching reading in mathematics not only helps students learn mathematics but it also helps them develop the skills needed in other subjects.

Parent Involvement These are a few suggestions you can try at home to help your child become more literate. = =