Mathematics Textbooks

    The book, in any form and on any subject, is a bridge between the writer and the reader. In the article, the authors mention that the language (e.g. pronouns) and examples used in mathematics textbooks reveal the distance and connection between authors and the student. As a former student, I think that in general, mathematics textbooks give me a sense of authority. When I read these textbooks, I always felt that the authors of the textbooks were lecturing me and that what they were saying was unquestionable. In addition, the language was sometimes difficult to understand and vague. The inconsistent use of command terms and terminology gave me a headache all the time. In my opinion, as a teacher, I see the teacher as acting as an agent between the student and the textbook author. Textbooks are not flawless and thus, teachers should make decisions on selecting good sections/examples to use in class or even combine different resources.

    I think textbooks are good resources for teachers but not students. I personally like to use guided notes to teach. I can gain inspiration from different textbooks and combine the best parts into my guided notes. Also, teachers are the ones who know their students best and the examples included in the guided notes could make students feel a closer connection to themselves, mathematics and the world.