Writing Assignments for Calculus

 

Janet C. Woodland, University of Arkansas

 

Many students become competent with computations in calculus, and some of those same students freely admit that they are not really sure of what it is that they are doing, and why any of it works.  The inclusion of writing assignments provides students the opportunity and the structure to explore and refine their understanding, and often provides the instructor with insight into recurring difficulties, as well as surprises regarding which students truly do and do not have command of the concepts at hand.  I use several kinds of writing assignments in my calculus classes: 

 

 

While not every student responds enthusiastically to writing assignments in calculus, most of them understand and respect the purposes of these activities, and some of them truly appreciate the opportunity to express themselves.