Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Resources and Strategies for the Use of Writing Projects in Mathematics

Abstract

As an often recommended but under-utilized pedagogical strategy, writing in mathematics has many benefits for students. However, creating and grading worthwhile writing projects can be more time-consuming than utilizing more traditional forms of assessment. This paper provides a concrete example of a writing project prompt, questions, directions, and rubric which can be utilized in any of a Calculus, Differential Equations, or Mathematical Modeling course. The authors provide strategies for reducing the writing project workload by reusing a well-formulated project prompt to address varying levels of mathematical content. Strategies and author comments about lessons learned while implementing the projects are included.