Writing is a natural extension of talking and provides valuable insight into students' thinking and their communication skills. The use of the writing-to-learn strategy in mathematics classes is one way for teachers to implement "Mathematics as Communication," the second standard in NCTM's Curriculum and Evaluation Standards for School Mathematics (1989). Writing is suggested as a way for K-12 students to communicate their understanding of mathematics and its applications. Using writing in a content area has earned the support of many educators. Journal writing, in particular, has become an integral part of the daily or weekly routine in many mathematics classrooms. Student journals are used, for example, to express anxieties about mathematics and the problems encountered in the learning process; to respond to specific questions or solve problems; or to reflect and summarize learnings about a particular topic.
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