Language-Integrated Math Instruction

I’ve been working to incorporate more intentional language supports in my sheltered math class for my ELD students. One of my newest additions is a math-specific grammar wall. It helps me remind students that every sentence needs a subject and a verb, and it gives us a shared visual to reference when we practice using complete sentences.

If you are anything like me and have ever wondered what language-integrated math instruction looks like—and had zero idea where to start—welcome. I’m here to share what I’ve been doing to help my students sound more like mathematicians.

Improving academic vocabulary is a great place to begin, but if we truly want our students to speak more confidently, we also need to address writing and speaking the way an English teacher would. Reinforcing these same concepts in our math classrooms can support state test performance, but more importantly, it dramatically improves academic discourse.

Attached is my math sentence frame and vocabulary list. The vocabulary list was created for my ELD students rather than native English speakers. That said, even our native English speakers benefit from explicit, specialized instruction—because everyone grows from clear grammar expectations and consistent language support.

Also, thanks to the Virginia Department of Education for creating grade-level word wall cards to enhance students' vocabulary (click link to see resources).

https://www.doe.virginia.gov/teaching-learning-assessment/k-12-standards-instruction/mathematics/instructional-resources/mathematics-vocabulary-word-wall-cards

Sentence frames in math.pdf

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