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Math and Literature

Alyssa Sumatzkuku

Ottawa University
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Introduction

Marilyn Burns (2015) a highly respected mathematics educator stated, connecting math

to literature can boost confidence for children who love books but are wary of math. And

students who already love math can learn to appreciate stories in an entirely new way (para.1).

The following paper is a review of an article about using literature to teach math. First, the writer

will address information she learned. Then, she will discuss how she implement literature in

teaching mathematics.

Review of Article

The article explains that students must know reading, writing and speaking skills. This is

not only true for reading but true for many disciplines. The article discusses that research has

proven that literature promotes communication in mathematical ideas. Research has also found

to prove that when literature has been used to teach math, students build on their critical thinking

skills and problem-solving skills. It also allows students to make a better connections personal or

real-life experiences. One important point this article makes is that using literature in

mathematics can help those teachers who feel math is not their strong subject. This tool can help

inspire teachers and make a positive connection to math. This attitude is passed on to students

(Gastn 2008).

Story Cards.

The article also explains that story non-mathematical literature can help students with

math skills and concepts. One lesson included the story of the three little pigs. A fifth-grade

teacher used the story of the three little pigs to teach about mental math. This teacher created
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word problems about time, cost, and materials for building the pigs house. These familiar stories

help activate students engagement (Gastn, 2008).

Future Implementation

After reading the article the writer now knows that math books (books that have to do

with math) are not the only literature that can be used. What is important is the literature being

meaningful and engaging. With this said the writer will use books that capture student

engagement. For instance, using the story The Princess and the Pea. This book can be used to

introduce counting on. Students can also make their own math story book. The writer has

discovered that students like to create and have a great imagination. One assessment might be for

students to create their own story problem by creating their own book. One other way the writer

can implement literature in math is finding and doing research before teaching a math lesson.

Conclusions

In conclusion any type of literature can be used to teach mathematic concepts. Teachers

who are not comfortable with teaching math can use literature. Literature can also introduce

students to new skills and manipulatives. It is important to be diligent when picking out literature

to make the lesson meaningful.

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References

Gastn, J. L. (2008, December 28). A Review and an update of using Childrens Literature to

Teach Mathematics. Retrieved from http://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED503766.pdf