Chapter 15: Reading Mathematics : Chapter 15: Reading Mathematics Academic Reading
by Kathleen T. McWhorter
(4th edition)
Powerpoint by Gretchen Starks-Martin
St. Cloud State University, Minnesota
Learning Objectives: : Learning Objectives: To understand the sequential nature of mathematics
To develop a systematic approach for reading mathematics textbooks
To solve word problems in mathematics
To learn common thought patterns used in mathematics
To develop study techniques for mathematics
Mathematics is largely sequential and cumulative; each skill builds on and hinges on previously learned skills. : Mathematics is largely sequential and cumulative; each skill builds on and hinges on previously learned skills.
Reading Mathematics Textbooks : Reading Mathematics Textbooks Preview Before Reading
Understand Mathematical Language
Follow the Chapter Organization
Read Chapter Explanations
Reading Mathematics Textbooks : Reading Mathematics Textbooks Read Sample Problems
Before you read the solution, think of how to solve the problem.
Read the solution and compare your answer.
Be sure to understand each step.
Explain the steps in your own words
Test understanding by covering up the text’s solution and solving the problem yourself.
Reading Mathematics Textbooks : Reading Mathematics Textbooks Read and Draw Graphs, Tables, and Diagrams
Study each drawing closely.
Use the drawings as models on which to base your own drawings.
Draw your own diagrams.
Use tables to organize and categorize large amounts of complicated data.
Reading Mathematics Textbooks : Reading Mathematics Textbooks Solve Word Problems
Identify what is asked for.
Locate the information that is provided to solve the problem.
Draw and label a diagram.
Estimate your answer.
Reading Mathematics Textbooks : Reading Mathematics Textbooks Use End-of-Chapter Material
Decide on a procedure to solve the problem.
Solve the problem.
Verify your answer.
Reading Mathematics Textbooks : Reading Mathematics Textbooks Use Writing to Learn
Definitions - Read in text and then write your own.
Class notes - Rewrite them.
Questions - Write lists of questions.
Problems - Write down what you under- stand about the problems.
Tests - Answer sample problems.
Diagrams - Draw diagrams of sample problems.
Review - Weekly review!
Reading Mathematics Textbooks : Reading Mathematics Textbooks Expect Gradual Understanding
Plan on reading, and then reading and solving, and finally re-solving problems.
Experiment with the chapter’s content.
Take risks in your attempts to solve problems.
Be active in your reading.
Thought Patterns in Mathematics : Thought Patterns in Mathematics Process
Problem/Solution
Comparison and Contrast
Studying Mathematics : Studying Mathematics Prepare for Class
Emphasize accuracy and precision.
Read the chapter carefully before working on exercises.
Before you begin a new chapter or assignment, always review the previous one.
Read the portion of your textbook that covers the next day’s lecture before attending class.
In your class notes, be sure to record sample problems that your instructor solves in class.
Studying Mathematics : Studying Mathematics Prepare Sample Tests
Build Your Confidence
Approach mathematics confidently.
Get help for “math anxiety.”
Take a refresher course, workshop, or math anxiety session.
Read the selection on mathematics and complete the exercises following the article. : Read the selection on mathematics and complete the exercises following the article.
“Introduction to Statistics: Mean, Median, and Mode”