A Glossary of Mathematical Terms and Concepts
for ESL Students
Preface
Through my years as a mathematics instructor, there are many occasions I came upon non-native speaking students who know most of the math terms and concepts except their equivalent English expressions. This glossary is prepared with those students in mind. All the terms and concepts are listed alphabetically. They are illustrated with either universal mathematical symbols or standard mathematical diagrams. Verbal explanation is kept to a minimum. For those not listed as an item heading, their page numbers can be located in the index. French and Spanish translations of the index are also included.
This is not a comprehensive mathematical dictionary and does not pretend to be one. However, with more use of this booklet, the list of terms will naturally expand to become more comprehensive.
I would like to express my appreciation for the encouragement and suggestions by colleagues at LaGuardia Community College. Special thanks are due to E. Grube for translating the index into French, and H. Medel into Spanish.
The printing of this revised edition is supported by a 1996 Professional Development Grant.
Dr. Kwan-Yuk Claire Sit
LaGuardia Community College of The City University of New York
Please note: This online version is based on the original printed document written by Dr. Kwan-Yuk Claire Sit. The online version has been edited and updated by the webmaster for web formatting. Content has not been revised.
Last modified February 22, 2008