Using a Vocabulary Map Routine to Explicitly Teach Mathematics Vocabulary

Typically, we associate vocabulary instruction as part of reading instruction. However, vocabulary instruction is also a necessary component of mathematics instruction. In fact, state and national standards (e.g., Common Core State Standards) require elementary students to communicate about mathematics to provide clear explanations, construct coherent arguments, and critique mathematical reasoning. Students need to become proficient in mathematics language and vocabulary to meet these standards. Researchers found that mathematics vocabulary knowledge is positively related to students’ mathematics performance across the elementary grades (e.g., Lin et al., 2021; Powell et al., 2017; Purpura & Reid, 2016). Students with more mathematics vocabulary knowledge tend to perform better on mathematics outcomes.