Communication Skills in Mathematics Classroom Dr. Marina Dedlovskaya LaGuardia Community College, CUNY November 18, 2006 November 18, 2006

Success in Professional Life Problem Solving Skills Writing Skills Communication Skills

Classroom Speaking Activities Presentations Presentations Debates Debates Discussions Discussions Oral Exams Oral Exams

The First Speech Assignment Icebreaker: Who is Mathematics? 1. If Mathematics were a person how would you describe him/her? 2. Make sure that your portrait includes gender, age, personality, appearance, and character traits of Mathematics

Presentation Sample 1: Building Vocabulary 1. Using on-line resources, find the etymology of the term “Sine”. Why do you think this particular word is used? 2. Make a brief presentation (2-3 minutes) to the class.

Presentation Sample 2: Cell Phone Service 1. Analyze three different plans for cell phone service. 2. Decide which one suits you best. Why? 3. Make a “Choosing a Cell Phone Plan” guide for prospective users.

Debate Should I Learn Math? 1. Read the given essay. 2. Prepare an opening statement and three arguments. 3. Conduct a debate.

Discussion What is wrong with this solution? log 2 x + log 2 (x + 5) = 1 log 2 [x(x + 5)] = 1 x(x + 5) = 1 x = 1 or x + 5 = 1 x = 1 or x =  4 Answer: {1,  4}

Discussion What is wrong with this solution? 1. Locate and describe the mistake in the solution presented. 2. Why did this mistake occur? 3. How will you avoid this type of error in the future?

My Math Grade 1. Prepare a brief speech addressed to your math professor about a grade you expect to receive in class. 2. Give a few reasons why you want to get this particular grade. 3. What are you going to do to achieve this grade?

Oral Communication Rubrics  Logic and Organization 50%  Language Choice and Pragmatics 25%  Vocal Delivery 15%  Nonverbal Skills 10%

Logic and Organization  Clear introduction, body and conclusion  Clear, logical development of the main idea or solution  Consistent and adequate use of material  Effective use of visual aids or technology

Language Choice and Pragmatics Appropriate use of mathematical terminology Appropriate use of mathematical terminology In interactive events, clear evidence of effective listening and relevant responses In interactive events, clear evidence of effective listening and relevant responses In prepared activities, use of creative expression and effective phrasing In prepared activities, use of creative expression and effective phrasing Consistent use of Standard American English grammar Consistent use of Standard American English grammar

Vocal Delivery Appropriate fluency Appropriate fluency Accurate pronunciation Accurate pronunciation Effective vocal variation to convey meaning and emphasis Effective vocal variation to convey meaning and emphasis

Nonverbal Skills Appropriate rate and volume Appropriate rate and volume Consistent eye contact Consistent eye contact Appropriate posture, gestures and facial expression Appropriate posture, gestures and facial expression Appropriate attire Appropriate attire

My Math Grade  Logic and Organization 50%  Language Choice and Pragmatics 25%  Vocal Delivery 15%  Nonverbal Skills 10%