How is a foreign language like an unknown math term or symbol? Help students in grades 5-8 figure out the language of math, which includes words or symbols that must be analyzed to understand their meaning. This lesson plan includes several activities and helpful math vocabulary lists.

Speaking the Language of Math

Our popular course The Language of Math teaches students to “translate” mathematical symbols and terms into words they understand, building a strong foundation for math success. The course also shows how to help students approach word problems and use rich problem-solving tasks to deepen understanding. 

Other courses you may like: 

• Supporting Literacy Skills in the Elementary Math Classroom
  
• Adding Relevance to Teaching Mathematics
  
• Fundamentals of Teaching Mathematics
  
• Strategies for Developing and Engaging an Effective Secondary Math Curriculum

Courses are self-paced, graduate-level, and available online. Browse our other professional development courses here.

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