Mathematics contain the following content: number sense measurement geometry algebraic sense probability and statistics logic strategies

and the following processes: problem solving reasoning communications connections

Problems presented in the web site are recommended for student use to communicate (in written form) understanding of math content.

Writing should be an integral part of teaching all subjects.  Writing is used as a tool to help students think about ideas.

Progress has been slow in the area of writing in mathematics.  Mathematics is seen as a subject that communicates through the manipulation of symbols in orderly ways, not as one that uses words to express ideas.  This view is unfortunate - and misleading.

The process of writing requires gathering, organizing, and clarifying thoughts. It demands finding out what you know and don't know.  It calls for thinking clearly.  Similarly, doing mathematics depends on gathering, organizing, and clarifying thoughts, finding out what you know and don't know, and thinking clearly.  Although the final representation of a mathematical pursuit looks very different from the final product of a writing effort, the mental journey is, at its base, the same - making sense of an idea and presenting it effectively.

     Writing can assist math instruction in two ways - by helping children make sense of mathematics and by helping teachers understand what children are learning.

• They should be integrated into what you are teaching; not be a totally unrelated activity.  However, they can also be used as a "Do Now" occasional activity to help students prepare for state tests.
  
• Be sure to discuss the prompts with the class after you have asked students to do them.  Ask students to share their responses with their classmates.  (Focus on processes and thinking.)
  
• Use them as a tool for instruction.  Plan classroom lessons that build to the topic of the prompt so the prompt can serve as part of your classroom assessment of what students can do.