An analysis of linguistic features of the multiplication tables and the language of multiplication

Abstract

This study analyses the linguistic features of Korean language in learning multiplication. Ancient Korean multiplication tables, Gugudan, as well as mathematics textbooks and teacher's guides from South Korea were examined for the instruction of multiplication in second grade. Our findings highlight the uniqueness of the grammatical features of numbers, the syntax of multiplication tables, the simplicity of language of multiplication in Korean language, and also the complexities and ambiguities in English language. We believe that, by examining the specific language of a topic, we will help to identify how language and culture tools shape the understanding of students' mathematical development. Although this study is based on Korean context, the method and findings will shed light on other East Asian languages, and will add value to the research on international comparative studies.