How Do I?
Using Word Maps to Learn Math Vocabulary Words
Middle Grades 6-8
Math and ELA
Purpose
Many experts agree that in order to be successful in comprehending, students must learn meanings
of words. Learning words in Math is just as important as it is in Reading in ELA. Learning vocabulary
words in math will help students explain concepts they need to learn and how they solve word
problems in their classes.
Step 1 Obtain the list of terms or words from a math unit.
These can be predetermined by the teacher, or it can be a list made by the student after
reading a math assignment in a text book. In addition to the list, be sure to get a sense of
where and how these terms will be used.
Step 2 Print a copy of the Math Word Map for each of the words the student needs to define.
Step 3 Begin by writing the term or math vocabulary word in the oval in the middle of the
sheet.
Be sure the word is spelled correctly.
Step 4 Next, write the definition of the word in the appropriate labeled rectangle.
Use the math text, online sources, a dictionary or other resources to get the definition.
Once you write the definition, repeat it to yourself out loud.
Step 5 List synonyms and antonyms of the word.
Synonyms are words that have the same meaning as the one that is being defined. You
might consider using a Thesaurus to help you find examples of synonyms.
Antonyms are words that mean the opposite of the term that is being defined.
Knowing both synonyms and antonyms of words not only helps to learn the meanings of
words, but helps to build a personal vocabulary as well.
Step 6 Write some examples of real life situations you might use the term in.
Making connections to how the terms are used in life helps to reinforce the importance of
knowing what the word means.
Step7 Draw a picture or visual example of the term.
Drawing a picture of a math term may not be as easy as drawing other words like a person or
place. But most math words can be visualized by a formula or a set of numbers. Knowing
what a word looks like will help to understand its meaning.
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Enhancing Education Through Technology
Schenectady City Schools
Copyright©2005
Step 8 Last, write a sentence containing the word.
Create a sentence that makes sense using the term.
Example of a completed Math Word Map
NY State Learning Standards Addressed
► ELA Standard 1 - Students will read, write, listen and speak for information and understanding.
Key Idea 1 - Reading
Core Performance Indicators:
 Determine the meaning of unfamiliar words by using context clues, a dictionary, a glossary, and structural
analysis (i.e., looking at roots, prefixes, and suffixes of words)
Grade Specific Performance Indicators:
 Locate and use school and public library resources independently to acquire information
 Use indexes to locate information and glossaries to define terms
 Use knowledge of structure, content, and vocabulary to understand informational text
Learning Competencies:
Background knowledge and vocabulary development
 Determine the meaning of unfamiliar words, terms, and idioms by using context, dictionaries, glossaries,
and other print and electronic resources
 Recognize grade-appropriate synonyms and antonyms and use a thesaurus to identify additional
examples
Comprehension and Response
 Find, evaluate, and combine information from print and electronic sources for student-selected and
teacher-selected inquiries
► Technology - Standard 2 – Information Systems
Key Idea 1
Performance Indicator A
Tracy Standhart, Instructional Technology Consultant, Schenectady City Schools, standhartt@schenectady.k12.ny.us
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Enhancing Education Through Technology
Schenectady City Schools
Copyright©2005