Language skills play a key role not only in German lessons, but also in all other subjects: only if pupils have sufficient language skills will they be able to understand and be successful in the subject in question.

The project “Mathematics for learners of German” explores the issue of writing proficiency in maths lessons, focusing particularly on written exercises and subject-specific learning. Writing serves two purposes in maths lessons: it helps to generate and structure knowledge (building up mathematical knowledge), and it supports the development of subject-relevant communication skills (fostering academic language skills).

The goal of this three-year project is initially to analyse the state of current research on writing in the STEM subjects and to document this in an expert report. On this basis, criteria for 'good' complex writing tasks (Schreibarrangements) will be formulated and measures developed to help pupils master written exercises; finally, the effectiveness of these will be reviewed in an intervention study. The project is designed to contribute to empirically sound support of writing proficiency in subject-specific lessons.