Date of Award/Publication

3-13-2006

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

MS in Mathematics, Science, and Technology Education

Abstract

The use of literacy strategies in the mathematics classroom has become an area of interest in recent years. Many researchers believe that there is a connection between the literacy and mathematics content. This study will examine the effect of the use of literacy strategies in a seventh grade mathematics classroom. The study was implemented in a rural district in which reading achievement is poor. Research has shown that students who perform poorly in reading tend to perform lower in other content areas. The No Child Left Behind Act has influenced states to increase standards. New York State introduced new standards for mathematics for the 2005-2006 school year. Along with new standards, the state is also implementing a state assessment for grades 38. I am a seventh grade mathematics teacher and was looking for ways to increase my student's achievement and knowledge retention. In researching ways to improve mathematics achievement, I found many literacy strategies that I would be able to implement into my classroom. The research showed that the use of literacy in the mathematics classroom increased student achievement and motivation. I wanted to implement the strategies in my classroom and study the effect on my student's achievement. Many of my students struggle in mathematics and I would like to find ways to help increase student achievement. Many assessments require students to digest a large amount of information that can be very difficult. It has been said ''the language of mathematics is comparable to a foreign language; math is a combination of symbol, numbers and words"(Beliveau, 2001, p. 2). I would like to find ways to incorporate literacy strategies that have been proven to work. This study will focus on the implementation of proven literacy strategies.

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