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Conclusion
Content area knowledge and literacy are connected, so it is important that literacy is being taught in the mathematics classroom. Not all mathematics teachers realize the importance of literacy in their classrooms, but as Fuentes (1998) points out, “Reading a lot is important if our students are to learn to love and appreciate mathematical language” (p. 85). The language and vocabulary of mathematics textbooks are one of many challenges that students face in the classroom, and math teachers can help students overcome these challenges by incorporating reading strategies into their classrooms. The literacy strategies that any middle school math teacher can incorporate into their instruction include, but are not limited to: activating prior knowledge through making predictions and anticipation guides; guided reading comprehension strategies such as think-alouds, graphic organizers, and vocabulary instruction; and incorporating writing, which promotes reflection.
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