Looking at Student Work Through a Responsive Lens: Part 7

Connecting to Culturally Responsive Practices

Math is more than numbers—it's deeply tied to students' experiences, identities, and cultural backgrounds. When we look at student work, we have a unique opportunity to connect the learning process to the diverse ways students think and solve problems.

Culturally responsive teaching means validating and honoring students' ways of knowing and approaching math. It’s about recognizing that their cultural experiences can enrich our classroom discussions and deepen mathematical understanding. Ask yourself:

🔹 How does this student’s solution reflect their lived experience?

🔹 What strategies or approaches might be influenced by their cultural background?

🔹 How can I honor and build on the diverse perspectives in my classroom?

Validating Multiple Ways of Thinking

When we create space for students to share and explore multiple methods of problem-solving, we broaden the ways in which math is understood and appreciated. A strategy that works well in one student’s cultural context may offer valuable insights for others. By validating these different approaches, we foster a classroom culture where every student feels seen and heard.

Try This in Your Classroom:

As you review student work, look for opportunities to connect students' strategies to their experiences and identities. Invite students to share how their cultural background influences the way they approach problem-solving. Use this as a springboard for rich, inclusive discussions.

I’d love to hear from you—how have you used student work to adjust your teaching and make sure every student feels like a valued part of the classroom community? Share your thoughts below! 👇