Math

Ideas for the last G in GANAG (provided by Michelle Dykstra) **Tips on creating writing prompts. (NCTM Magazine)** 1. When introducing writing prompts, focus on how the writer connects with mathematics. Beginning mathematics writers are more comfortable writing about themselves than the content itself. Save prompts aimed at class activities, data or theorems until later. 2. Help students develop their writing skills by giving very specific descriptive directions, but still giving them freedom to be creative. 3. Use the words **//how//** and **//why//** often. These questions will be more thought-provoking than other questions. Have them respond to such prompts as "Describe how you would..." "Your friend Sally missed class. Explain how to...." 4. At the end of a topic, chapter, or unit, require students to reflect on their progress. Ask them "The test is tomorrow. How do you think you will do and why?" "Go back through the homework from this chapter. Find a problem that you did incorrectly at first. Explain what you did wrong and what you should have done  or how you corrected your mistake." 5. Have students write a poem using math vocabulary. 6. Give students 10 minutes at the end of a class period to write and summarize what they have been learning, ask questions, etc. **The link below also has 59 writing prompts for math teachers. There are some great ideas, so check it out.** []