Examination of mathematical terms in terms of semantics and syntax

Language, a communication tool used by human beings is also of crucial importance for explaining and comprehending math. Math is a system and a metalanguage, which owns its unique terminological language yet is learned through formal education. The metalanguage of math is a universal one, existing with its very own symbols, lexicon, semantic stratum and syntactic structure. Understanding this unique language and using it properly are of prime importance for a better comprehension of mathematical problems. Comprehension of math is both a linguistic and a cognitive matter. The purpose of the current research is to examine the terms, words and symbols used in math within a framework of semantical and syntactical structure. To achieve this aim, a qualitative research methodology is conducted for the current study. Based on a document analysis, the study draws on math course books (grades 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th) as the data source, which are used at secondary school level for the academic year 2019-2020 and proposed by Ministry of National Education. The qualitative data was subjected to descriptive analysis. The results of the study revealed that the terms, words and symbols used in math have a strong relationship with semantics and syntax. As such, the importance of semantics and syntax in math education is promoted, and also the need to use these linguistic components correctly is emphasized in the present study. Keywords: semantics, syntax, mathematical terms, mathematics education