Chapter 16: Reading Mathematics

1. Chapter 16: Reading Mathematics Academic Reading, Fifth Edition by Kathleen T. McWhorter

2. 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

3. Mathematics is largely sequential and cumulative; each skill builds on and hinges on previously learned skills.

4. Reading Mathematics Textbooks • Preview Before Reading • Understand Mathematical Language • Follow the Chapter Organization • Read Chapter Explanations

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. Reading Mathematics Textbooks • Use End-of-Chapter Material • Decide on a procedure to solve the problem. • Solve the problem. • Verify your answer.

9. 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!

10. 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.

11. Thought Patterns in Mathematics • Process • Problem/Solution • Comparison and Contrast

12. 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.

13. 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.

14. Read the selection on mathematics and complete the exercises following the article. “Introduction to Statistics: Mean, Median, and Mode” by Margaret L. Lial and Diana L. Hestwood