Bringing Mathematics Alive Through Stories

Abstract

Stories and mathematics are often seen as incompatible. This misconception is arguably caused by the way mathematics is perceived only as a collection of formulae, largely abstract and void of meaningful context. However, many previous studies provide evidence that connecting stories and mathematics together is beneficial to both literacy and mathematical development. This chapter will draw from relevant theories and research literature to highlight potential cognitive and emotive benefits of integrating stories in developing mathematical thinking and learning for young children. The chapter will also discuss some of the benefits of treating learners not only as consumers of mathematical stories, but also as their producers. Finally, the chapter will end with some interesting case studies of practitioners using stories in their mathematics teaching.