Middle Level Math: Strategies to Improve Teaching Mathematics Vocabulary

This extensive literature review explores the research on teaching mathematical vocabulary in the middle level classroom. The first goal was to identify specific research about the most effective strategies for teaching mathematical vocabulary. The second goal was to find strategies to teach multiple-meaning mathematical words. The final goal was to uncover research-based strategies that help students make connections between mathematics vocabulary and their lives. The research indicates that reading and mathematics vocabulary needs to be taught differently due to the specificity of mathematical vocabulary. This paper presents a plethora of strategies for teaching mathematical vocabulary including ideas for teaching multiple-meaning words and ways of helping students make connections between mathematical vocabulary and their lives. This paper also includes some recommendations and resources for teachers looking to improve their practice