Math Language in Middle School: Be More Specific

The use of formal, consistent, and concise math language is important for students with learning difficulties, particularly during middle school when math language demands increase with each grade level and students are responsible for understanding hundreds of math vocabulary terms. Using specific and precise math language supports students’ conceptual understanding and the development of math knowledge across grade levels. In this article, we provide recommendations for special educators on the use of math language within math instruction. We provide figures to guide educators on the use formal versus informal math terms and information about terms that require specificity within the domains of numbers and operations as well as geometry and measurement.