How do you balance the math content and the social context in your lessons?

1 Choose a meaningful topic

The first step is to choose a topic that is relevant, interesting, and accessible to your students. You can use current events, local issues, or global problems as sources of inspiration. For example, you can explore topics such as climate change, social justice, health, or economics. However, you should also consider your students' prior knowledge, background, and interests, and avoid topics that are too controversial, sensitive, or complex for your grade level.

3 Provide multiple perspectives

The third step is to provide multiple perspectives on the social issue. You should expose your students to different sources of information, opinions, and arguments, and encourage them to critically analyze and evaluate them. You can use texts, videos, podcasts, or guest speakers as resources. You should also facilitate discussions and debates among your students, and help them to communicate their own views and questions in a respectful and constructive way.

4 Scaffold the math skills

The fourth step is to scaffold the math skills that your students need to apply to the social issue. You should provide explicit instruction, modeling, and feedback on how to use the math concepts and tools in the context of the topic. You can use examples, scenarios, or simulations to illustrate the math processes and strategies. You should also differentiate your instruction and support according to your students' readiness, needs, and preferences.

5 Engage in problem-solving

The fifth step is to engage your students in problem-solving activities related to the social issue. You should design and present authentic, meaningful, and open-ended problems that require your students to use the math skills and knowledge they have learned. You should also provide opportunities for your students to work collaboratively, creatively, and reflectively on the problems. You can use project-based learning, inquiry-based learning, or challenge-based learning as frameworks for your problem-solving activities.

6 Extend the learning

The final step is to extend the learning beyond the math lesson. You should encourage your students to apply what they have learned to their own lives, communities, and world. You can invite your students to take action, share their findings, or propose solutions to the social issue. You can also connect your students with other learners, experts, or organizations who are interested or involved in the topic. You can use digital tools, platforms, or networks to facilitate these connections.