In any classrooms of learning, it is the teacher that plays a major role coupled with his expertise and competency, adaptable teaching methodologies and assessment tools in any subject matters that she or he teaches,

            Journal writing is an excellent vehicle for helping students be molded into a goal driven and inspire them to reflect, organize and realize goals in life; and for the teachers to monitor the efficiency and effectiveness of instruction . Today, teachers are realizing that writing during math lesson is more than just a way to document information. It is a way to deepen student learning and a tool for helping students gain new perspective.

Journal writing is the most effective means for further development and enhancement of students’ mathematical thinking, appreciation and   communication skills as well.With over 18 years of my journey in teaching mathematics in our country and even in foreign countries, I’ve learned that this technique, with touch of heart and understanding and compassion, proved that   journal entries in mathematics tend to develop and enhance student’s learning of mathematical concepts comprehensively, instead of just being robotics in reading and solving mathematical problems. When students write explanations of their work and give examples, teachers can better gauge and assess students’ understanding, comprehension and progress all throughout. Moreover, the teacher is able to get an idea of a student’s thought progression as well as address any concerns that the students may have. When reading through the journal entries, an analysis can be made to determine if further review is required. When students write a math journal, they must reflect on what they have learned which becomes a great assessment technique for students and mentors. Since journals are always confidential, students have the opportunity to freely express their thoughts and feelings without any apprehension of humiliation from their classmates. Journals in math provide teachers with a unique diagnostic tool. Thus, I believe writing is also essential in mathematics and is as important in developing students’ mathematical knowledge in numbers and computation. Math journal serves as a key guide in teaching.

As recommendations; Journal writing shall be integrated in most if not in all mathematics subject teachers. Teachers shall design a systematic way of introducing the activity in the class for smooth transition into journal writing. Every writing activity should maintain the interest of the students, in able to integrate writing in mathematical concepts.

By: Melanie I. Carlos | Bataan National High School