Mathematical Thinking: Article Analysis

I chose to critique the empirical research article titled Using Math Journals to Enhance Second Graders’ Communication of Mathematical Thinking.
A1. Description of the Research Problem
The research problem addresses how the use of math journals affected second grade students’ communication of mathematical thinking. The introduction clearly describes the problem in detail and is quite well documented. The basic premise is that a student’s response to a mathematical calculation is not indicative of their mathematical thinking process rather it could just be attributed to rote memorization. An example provided, described how a student can execute a subtraction calculation with regrouping, however, they are simply using their recall skills to solve and get the correct answer. It was noted that subtraction calculations are not the only issue with mathematical thinking, as many other mathematical concepts are impacted as well.
A2. Quality of Statement Purpose, Research Questions, and Hypotheses
This literature review illustrates how the implementation of math journals for communication in mathematical thinking came about and how it has spread into a standard for mathematics programs. The review clearly supports the research problem and provides information supporting the quantitative method, by explaining and reporting statistics found in the research. The qualitative and mixed methods are clearly explained with findings from the researcher with interview excerpts and comments.
This review aligns with the stated problem of how the use of math journals affected second grade students’ communication of mathematical thinking, and is supported by the methodology used, data gathering techniques, and reporting of