An Examination of Commonly Used Fourth-Grade Mathematics Textbooks Through a LatCrit Lens

• In Event: Tales and Texts: Approaches to Qualitative Work

Abstract

The investigation of word problems through a collaborative qualitative inquiry of critical discourse analysis and content analysis, this study sought to investigate how language is employed in three widely distributed fourth-grade mathematics textbooks. Critical discourse analysis was used to understand the overachieving picture of how the discourse, specifically the language, was employed to include or exclude Hispanic Latinx culture. Content analysis was then utilized to further analyze the text. In particular, enumerative and thematic content analysis approaches further looked at relationships of frequency and cultural contexts. The findings of this study identified the relative strengths and weaknesses of the texts in regard to supporting mathematics instruction for Hispanic ELL students.

Author

• Jami Cara Friedrich, Mercer University