Introduction: Language, literacy, and learning in the stem disciplines

Learning and teaching mathematics and science is a complex process, requiring both students and teachers to know and use a variety of types of knowledge. This includes knowledge of the language and communication challenges inherent to these disciplines. This chapter provides background for the volume that will address what mathematics and science educators, students, and teachers need to know about the particular forms and content of academic language used in the STEM disciplines. The chapter introduces the topics of instruction and assessment at the intersection of language, literacy, and STEM learning, with particular attention to the education of English learners.]