How to Apply Reading & Mathematical Skills in the Classroom
Reading and mathematics are at the core of school curriculum, and it is essential for students to learn, practice and understand the concepts. Reading and mathematical skills can be integrated into many aspects of the classroom so that students are continually practicing and improving their skills. Incorporating mathematics into reading class, and vice versa, improves reading and writing skills. Integrating interactive activities in the classroom also supports reading and writing skills because students are able to work together. Group activities, games, contests and creating writing activities are enjoyable for students and also strengthen reading and writing skills.
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Integrate reading and writing material into math class. Using children's books and literature in math class reinforces reading and writing skills, introduces math concepts in a new and exciting way, builds problem-solving skills and builds a more conceptual understanding of math. Children's literature can teach the same mathematical concepts as traditional textbooks, but in a way children can relate to more easily. Picture books are ideal for younger children, and narratives and novels are better for older children. The children's book "Inch by Inch," by Leo Lionni, tells the story of a worm that measures objects to avoid being eaten. The book teaches counting, measurement addition and subtraction. For older children, "Sir Cumference and the Sword in the Cone," by Cindy Neuschwander, teaches geometry skills in a narrative style.
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Integrate mathematical skills into English or language arts classes. Basic reading and writing skills are reinforced by having children write out mathematical processes. This also strengthens step-by-step mathematical skills as children analyze the processes. Instead of simply completing the math problem 2 x 2 and writing 4, have students write, "Two multiplied by two equals four," for example.
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Read aloud together as a class to strengthen reading skills. Each student should read a sentence, paragraph or page, depending on the age level and the teacher's preference. Reading aloud regularly lets students practice their reading skills and build confidence. Reading a story or novel together as a class promotes more discussion and allows more time for questions than independently reading at home. Reading aloud also helps students to visualize the story, imagine its characteristics and make real-life connections to the story.
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Use writing exercises that are fun and interactive. Many students are discouraged and overwhelmed by traditional writing assignments and research papers. Fun activities include starting a writing chain in the classroom. Each student writes one paragraph, then hands it to the next student, who continues the narrative. Another fun activity is assigning creative writing assignments. Students focus on content and self-expression rather than grammar and punctuation. Creative writing activities emphasize writing for meaning and content in an enjoyable way.
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Use contests and games to teach math skills. After learning a new concept, students can compete against one another to see who answers the most questions correctly. Students can also race one another to answer a question correctly. The teacher can give incentives or rewards to winners. Mathematics games and contests are an interactive and fun way to apply mathematics in the classroom. Students enjoy the activity and competition and are motivated to learn the concepts correctly so they can compete and win. Games and competition increase participation and interest in mathematics.
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