Celebrating Black History

Overview

This 45-minute introductory lesson kicks off the 5-part unit "Mathematics Through Black History" for 10th grade students. The focus is on understanding the significance of Black History Month in American history and recognizing key historical figures whose perseverance and contributions resonate with mathematical thinking and problem-solving. The lesson aligns with Common Core State Standards (CCSS) in Literacy and Mathematics, enriching mathematical learning through social studies and critical discussion.

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Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

• Analyze and discuss the significance of Black History Month in U.S. history and culture (CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.9-10.2, CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.9-10.1).
• Identify major Black historical figures and explain their contributions and values of perseverance and equality (CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.9-10.3).
• Connect themes of persistence and equality in history to mathematical problem-solving and growth mindset competencies (CCSS.MATH.MP1, CCSS.MATH.MP6).

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Standards Alignment

Common Core State Standards Addressed:

• Reading Informational Text
  • CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.9-10.2: Determine central ideas and analyze their development over a text.
  • CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.9-10.3: Analyze a complex set of ideas and explain interactions.
• Speaking and Listening
  • CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.9-10.1: Initiate and participate effectively in collaborative discussions.
• Mathematical Practices
  • CCSS.MATH.MP1: Make sense of problems and persevere in solving them.
  • CCSS.MATH.MP6: Attend to precision.

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Materials Needed

• Short biographical summaries of each historical figure (print or slides)
• Whiteboard or large paper and markers
• Chart paper for group brainstorming
• Copies of a "Values and Math Connections" worksheet (designed for this lesson)
• Timer or clock

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Lesson Procedure

1. Hook (5 min)

• Begin with a thought-provoking question on the board:
  “Why is it important to celebrate Black History Month in America?”
• Ask students to take 2 minutes to jot down their initial thoughts individually.
• Invite students to briefly share ideas; write key words on the board (e.g., equality, perseverance, history).
• Purpose: Engage curiosity, assess prior knowledge, and set context.

2. Mini-Presentation: Key Historical Figures (10 min)

• Present a brief, vivid introduction of each figure using visuals and concise bullet points:
  • Katherine Johnson: NASA mathematician whose calculations enabled space missions.
  • Jackie Robinson: First African American in Major League Baseball, breaking racial barriers.
  • Harriet Tubman: Conductor of the Underground Railroad, courageous and strategic.
  • Martin Luther King Jr.: Leader of civil rights nonviolent movement.
  • Rosa Parks: Catalyst of Montgomery Bus Boycott through peaceful resistance.
• Highlight perseverance and equality themes connected to their achievements.
• Use questions to engage students: “How might Katherine Johnson's perseverance reflect mathematical problem-solving?”

3. Pair Discussion & Text Analysis (10 min)

• Students read short excerpts about each figure’s contribution and the challenges they faced (handouts).
• In pairs, students discuss:
  • What obstacles did each person overcome?
  • How do their stories demonstrate the values of perseverance and equality?
• Students annotate the texts with notes on how these values relate to solving difficult math problems or working in teams.

4. Group Brainstorm: Math and Perseverance (10 min)

• As a group, students brainstorm examples of how perseverance and equality can be seen in math learning.
• Write down examples such as: tackling challenging problems, collaborating respectfully, learning from mistakes, and precision in calculations.
• Complete the "Values and Math Connections" worksheet collaboratively, linking historical themes to qualities in mathematics (e.g., perseverance = “Not giving up when a problem is difficult,” equality = “Respecting all ideas in solving problems”).

5. Reflection and Wrap-Up (5 min)

• Each student shares one insight about how understanding Black History Month can inspire their approach to math.
• Teacher summarizes key points, reinforcing the connection of history, social values, and mathematical habits of mind.
• Preview next lesson: deeper dive into Katherine Johnson’s math work.

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Assessment

• Informal assessment through observation of pair discussions and group brainstorming.
• Evaluation of the "Values and Math Connections" worksheet for understanding of thematic links.
• Exit slip prompt: “Describe one way a Black historical figure's perseverance inspires you in math.”

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Differentiation Strategies

• Provide audio versions of biographical texts for students who need auditory support.
• Encourage students who need advanced challenges to consider more complex math connections or historical contexts.
• Use graphic organizers to support varied reading levels.

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Extension Ideas

• Incorporate multimedia biographies or short documentaries in future lessons.
• Invite students to research and present about a lesser-known Black mathematician or scientist.
• Connect mathematical modeling to real historical challenges faced by these figures.

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This scaffolded introduction using key social themes contextualizes math learning in a culturally responsive framework, in alignment with Common Core literacy and math standards. It encourages critical thinking, collaboration, and appreciation for history, fostering a meaningful interdisciplinary experience.