Abstract / Synopsis
In this article we explore the metaphors and similes that pre-service elementary teachers use to describe mathematics. Employing qualitative content analysis, we separately coded the metaphors and similes into conceptual categories and analyzed themes that emerged. This grounded theory approach led to the creation of seven categories of metaphors and similes and three overarching themes. Math was viewed as a journey, a puzzle, a personal experience, a creative process, an algorithm, infinite, and an embodied process. Pre-service elementary teachers viewed mathematics as a process that takes effort. Overall, mathematics is a positive experience for them. In addition, mathematics involves fitting things together. Comparing the findings in this study with findings from previous studies shows a shift in pre-service elementary teachers’ views of mathematics — in short, the views of mathematics are considerably more positive. Our findings suggest that enhancing and broadening pre-service elementary teachers’ views of mathematics will positively affect their classrooms and future students. Through the use of metaphors and similes, teacher educators can examine and reflect on their implicit beliefs.
Recommended Citation
Carmen M. Latterell & Janelle L. Wilson, ""Math Is Like a Rollercoaster": Exploring Math Similes and Metaphors," Journal of Humanistic Mathematics, Volume 16 Issue 2 (July 2026), pages 138-151. . Available at: https://scholarship.claremont.edu/jhm/vol16/iss2/8
