Grade 4: All About Mathematicians

To set the foundation for math success, students started by describing and discussing what it means to be a mathematician. They drew portraits of what they thought a mathematician looks like, and talked about stereotypes. Teachers Courtney Menk and Nikki Spiers then shared the names and accomplishments of mathematicians like Ada Lovelace and Katherine Johnson.
 

“I wanted to dispel some stereotypes about who can be good at math and expose students to female mathematicians and math experts of color,” Nikki shares. “We also watched a video from math educator Jo Boaler about mindsets in terms of math. They learned that as their brain grows they can become better math thinkers every year."

 

Students also learned about applied mathematics by discussing careers that use math skills, like architecture. Finally, they set expectations for working within small groups, establishing guidelines for solving problems in different ways and how to communicate their thoughts clearly and respectfully.

Fourth grade mathematicians are putting these skills to work as they solve problems related to place value this week. Nice work, Grade 4!