When you think of math and computer science, writing may not be the first thing that comes to mind. These subjects are traditionally viewed as logic-based, number-driven, and structured—far from the creative flow of a language arts class. But that mindset often limits our students. The truth is, integrating writing into math and computer science instruction can transform the way students think, learn, and communicate.
In this post, we’ll explore practical strategies for blending writing into math and computer science classrooms to help students deepen their understanding and strengthen essential communication skills.
Why Writing is Important in Math & Computer Science
Writing forces students to slow down and think critically. It helps them make sense of what they’re doing by requiring them to articulate their thoughts clearly. In both math and computer science, writing can be a powerful tool to clarify understanding, document processes, and develop problem-solving skills.
When students write about how they solved a math problem or explain the logic behind a coding function, they’re not just practicing communication—they’re internalizing complex concepts. Writing strengthens reasoning, encourages reflection, and builds a bridge between computation and comprehension.
Strategies for Incorporating Writing in Math
1. Writing About Problem-Solving Processes
Encouraging students to write step-by-step explanations of how they solve problems helps make their thinking visible. It allows them to see not just what they did, but why it worked.
Example: After solving a word problem, have students write a paragraph explaining how they interpreted the question and the strategy they used to arrive at the solution.
2. Math Journals or Reflections
Math journals are a great way for students to reflect on what they’ve learned, note challenges, and connect content to real life.
Example: At the end of a unit, ask students to write about how their understanding of a specific concept—like graphing quadratic equations—evolved over time.
3. Explaining Mathematical Concepts in Words
When students can explain abstract concepts in their own words, they’re more likely to retain and apply them.
Example: Have students define key terms like “slope” or “derivative” and provide examples of how they show up in real-world scenarios.
Strategies for Incorporating Writing in Computer Science
1. Documenting Code with Comments
Teaching students to write meaningful comments in their code is a form of writing that mirrors real-world software development. It reinforces understanding and prepares them for collaborative work environments.
Example: Require students to comment on each function, explaining what it does and why it’s necessary.
2. Writing Technical Reports or Documentation
This practice helps students develop professional communication skills and gives them a chance to reflect on their coding process.
Example: After completing a project, students could write a short report describing the problem they solved, how their code works, and what they learned along the way.
3. Explaining Algorithms in Words
This strategy pushes students to think deeply about how their code works beyond the syntax.
Example: Have students describe the logic of a sorting algorithm like bubble sort using plain language, as if they were teaching it to someone with no coding experience.
Combining Writing and Math/Computer Science Projects
Blending math, computer science, and writing opens the door for interdisciplinary learning. Students could:
- Build a math-based app or website and write documentation explaining how it works.
- Collaborate on a group project where one student codes, another tests, and another writes the user manual.
- Explore a real-world issue using data analysis and write a report on their findings and recommendations.
These projects mirror the real world—where engineers, developers, and analysts must communicate their work clearly and often to non-technical audiences.
Benefits of Including Writing in Math & Computer Science
- Improved Understanding: Writing solidifies concepts and reveals gaps in understanding.
- Better Communication Skills: Explaining complex topics clearly is essential for academic and career success.
- Critical Thinking: Writing encourages students to approach problems from multiple angles and think deeply about solutions.
- Career Readiness: Many roles in STEM fields require strong written communication for reports, documentation, and collaboration.
Conclusion & Call to Action
Incorporating writing into math and computer science doesn’t take away from rigor—it adds to it. When students can explain what they’ve learned and how they’ve applied it, they’re more engaged, more confident, and better prepared for the future.
Start small. Ask students to write a few sentences about how they solved a problem or why they chose a certain coding method. Over time, these small writing moments can lead to big breakthroughs in learning.
Have you tried adding writing into your math or computer science instruction? Share your experiences or favorite strategies in the comments—I’d love to hear what’s working in your classroom!
