Reflection: Mathematics for Social Justice reading

I think the author’s intention in writing this book is to move away from the traditional lectures, the template and algorithm math. I agree with the author that we should introduce real life situations in math to make make more practical and interesting. Also, we can introduce new ideas and problems of social justice in our society that students may not thought of.

I think math is definitely connected social studies and history. For example, many wars were caused by financial reasons. I think it would be interesting to look at the history at a more mathematical view. Numbers are concrete facts, hopefully we can show history in a less biased view. The two sample lessons are also great topics. The ecological foot print can show the the importance of sustainability and promote a more sustainable lifestyle. Cost related topics are very practical, things students can relate to their lives and make better financial choices. These are great topics that can influence students and have a long term effect.

I agree that if we look at real life data it will be more interesting for students to learn. For example, HIV infection data rather than pizza slices. However, I found many of the topics very sensitive, we should think about how to deliver the sensitive topics on abuse, capital punishment, child death, suicide, and LGBTQ topics. I think these topics are more suitable for secondary school students.  The older students have better critical thinking skills looking at these topics and making critical analysis. Whereas the younger grades, some of the topics are too emotional and may move the focus away from math rather than a supplement.