LITERACY IN MATHEMATICS - A CHALLENGE FOR TEACHERS IN THEIR WORK WITH PUPILS

This paper focuses upon the importance of aspects of teachers' mathematical knowledge in their work in making mathematics available for pupils. As theoretical background, Bruner' s theory about two modes of thought, syntagmatic and paradigmatic, is presented. The Knowledge Quartet is used as an analytical tool in analysing transcripts from classroom observations before discussing the episodes from a literacy perspective. Finally, suggestions are made to put more weight on mediating tools, rather than on basic skills, in the learning process.