Standard 2: Mathematics as Communication

In grades K-4, the study of mathematics should include numerous opportunities for communication so that students can:

• Relate physical materials, pictures, and diagrams to mathematical ideas

Benchmarks 4D (The Physical Setting: Structure of Matter)
Grades K-2, page 76
Objects can be described in terms of the materials they are made of (clay, cloth, paper, etc.) and their physical properties (color, size, shape, weight, texture, flexibility, etc.).

Benchmarks 12D (Habits of Mind: Communication Skills)
Grades K-2, page 296
Describe and compare things in terms of number, shape texture size, weight, color, and motion.
 
• Reflect on and clarify their thinking about mathematical ideas and situations

Benchmarks 11B (Common Themes: Models)
Grades K-2, page 268
A model of something is different from the real thing but can be used to learn something about the real thing.

Benchmarks 12E (Habits of Mind: Critical-Response Skills)
Grades K-2, page 298
Ask "How do you know?" in appropriate situations and attempt reasonable answers when others ask them the same question.
 

• Relate their everyday language to mathematical language and symbols

Benchmarks 12E (Habits of Mind: Critical-Response Skills)
Grades K-2, page 298
One way to describe something is to say how it is like something else.

Benchmarks 2C (The Nature of Mathematics: Mathematical Inquiry)
Grades K-2, page 36
Numbers and shapes can be used to tell about things.
 

• Realize that representing, discussing, reading, writing, and listening to mathematics are a vital part of learning and using mathematics

Benchmarks 1B (The Nature of Science: Scientific Inquiry)
Grades K-2, page 10
Describing things as accurately as possible is important in science because it enables people to compare their observations with those of others.

Benchmarks 12A (Habits of Mind: Values and Attitudes)
Grades 3-5, page 286
Keep records of their investigations and observations and not change the records later.

Benchmarks 1C (The Nature of Science: The Science Enterprise)
Grades 3-5, page 16
Clear communication is an essential part of doing science. It enables scientists to inform others about their work, expose their ideas to criticism by other scientists, and stay informed about scientific discoveries around the world.