Lisa Kirby Math Journals

Lisa Kirby Literature Review

Title:  Math Journals: Boost Real Learning

Author:  Marilyn Burns and Robyn Silbey

Source: http://www.mathsolutions.com/documents/2001_Math_Journals.pdf

Summary:

Math Journals are a great way to get students to stretch their minds and make sense of concepts they encounter.  When they write in their journals they tend to better examine, express, and keep track of their reasoning.  Teachers can also better evaluate their students’ progress and recognize their strengths and needs.

Math Journals can be used in different ways.  Some teacher have their students do their whole assignment in their journals where others write entries at the end of class describing what they did and what they learned, including things they are not confident with.  Journals can also be used for a particular class assignment where the teacher gives students a problem to do or a question to reflect upon.  If students are having a difficult time with what to write in their journals, the teacher can encourage them to explain their thinking.  They can also give all the students the same assignment and then use it for a class discussion, or have them describe what they did.

When the teacher is reading the students’ entries they have the opportunity to try and learn more about each individual student and what they can infer about the child’s thinking or responses and issues they may struggle with.  Teachers do not have to make a comment on every entry, but they do need to make the feedback authentic when appropriate.

Analysis:        

I have always wanted to use math journals, and this article has helped me to see how the process works and where to begin.  I feel that journaling is mutually beneficial for my students and their learning of math and for me as well.   I am going to start by giving my students prompts:  What I know about _____ so far is ______.  What I am still not sure about is_____ .  What I would like to know more about is______.