Departmental
Writing Goals for
the Mathematics Major
The department has chosen
communication as one its four primary goals for the mathematics major
program.
COMMUNICATION: Students
should be able to use standard mathematical vocabulary and symbolism
correctly and appropriately. Students should be able to write and speak
mathematically in a variety of formats. Students should be able to communicate
an idea from a variety of perspectives when appropriate. Students should
be able to contribute ideas and comment on the ideas of others in collaborative
problem-solving settings and group discussions. Students should be able
to use technology appropriately to enhance their communication of mathematical
ideas.
Specifically, mathematics
students will be expected to do the following during the course of their
studies:
Student Writing Goals
- Write about a topic from
the graphical, numerical, analytical, and verbal points of view.
- Organize and consolidate her mathematical thinking in writing.
- Use the language and symbols of mathematics to express mathematical
ideas precisely.
- Communicate in writing her mathematical thinking coherently and clearly
to peers, instructors, and others in the field.
- Analyze and evaluate the mathematical writing of others.
Student Writing Objectives
- Research and write about
a historical or mathematical topic.
- Explain an algorithm.
- Use technology to complete formal and informal writings.
- Complete a formal proof.
- Create answers to subjective test questions such as short-answer and
essay.
- Complete homework assignments that show clear, complete thinking and
writing about process.
- Write a computer program with comments. This applies to BS candidates,
CIS majors, CSA minors, and certifying majors.
- Demonstrate the ability to write about math for student journals and/or
student presentations.
- Demonstrate knowledge of plagiarism and how it can be avoided.
- Demonstrate a working knowledge of APA/MLA style.
- Learn about math through writing.
