National Standards for School Mathematics  Principles and Standards for School Mathematics by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (2000)  Standards describe what students should know and be able to do after instruction.  This document supports the belief that having standards will improve math instruction.

In Addition to the Standards six principles of excellent mathematical instruction were suggested.  Equity Curriculum Learning Teaching Assessment Technology

Using What we know about Reading Instruction to Teach Math  Accessing Prior Knowledge  Connections to familiar subjects  Building Vocabulary  Teaching Sequencing skills  Discussion about Comprehension

A Narrative story can take a concept and apply it to a real life situation.  Example: Anno’s Mysterious Multiplying Jar by Masaichiro & Mitsumasa Anno This story introduces the concept of multiplication and factoring while telling a story.

 Learning becomes more concrete and interactive.  The book becomes the manipulative by allowing the student to experience the concept thru the characters in the book.

 Combining Children’s Literature with math instruction helps eliminate math negativity that many students experience.

 Using narrative literature to teach math is especially helpful for students struggling with mathematics.

Using literature with older students  Using texts to encourage mathematical thinking and discussion is imperative for drawing more students into the field of math.

Steps to Reading and Math  Read aloud to students.  Think-aloud as you read to your students. Model your comprehension processes for students. This can give them a chance to hear how a mathematician might think.  Show students how to use trade books as sources for research or inquiry projects.  Use graphic organizers to collect and organize information.