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Why Black History Month Belongs in Every Subject
Black History Month is a time to reflect on the incredible contributions of Black individuals throughout history. While it is traditionally celebrated in social studies and language arts, integrating Black history into other subjects, such as math, enhances students’ understanding and shows them the real-world impact of mathematical concepts.
By making cross-curricular connections, we help students see that math is not just numbers on a page—it’s a powerful tool that has been used throughout history by scientists, engineers, and leaders to make meaningful changes in society.
The Power of Cross-Curricular Connections
Cross-curricular teaching connects different subjects, making learning more engaging and meaningful for students. When students see math integrated with social studies, they develop a deeper appreciation for the role of mathematics in history, economics, and everyday life. These connections also help students retain information by giving them a broader context for mathematical concepts.
For example, studying statistics and data related to the Civil Rights Movement or financial literacy concepts through the lives of Black entrepreneurs provides both historical knowledge and essential math skills.
How to Integrate Black History Month into Math Lessons
1. Historical Figures and Their Contributions to Math
One of the best ways to integrate Black history into math is by highlighting influential Black mathematicians and scientists. Figures like:
Katherine Johnson (NASA mathematician whose calculations were critical to space missions)
Benjamin Banneker (astronomer and mathematician who helped survey Washington, D.C.)
Mary Jackson (aerospace engineer and one of NASA’s first Black female engineers)
Elbert Frank Cox (first Black person to earn a Ph.D. in mathematics)
Discussing their contributions provides students with role models and shows them the power of mathematics in solving real-world problems.
2. Real-World Math Applications Through Black History
Students can explore:
Data analysis of Civil Rights Movement statistics – Use bar graphs and percentages to analyze voter registration data before and after the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
Economics and financial literacy – Study the impact of Black Wall Street in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and use multiplication and division to calculate economic growth.
Geometry in African American Art and Architecture – Explore how quilts, such as those made by the Gee’s Bend quilters, used symmetry and geometric patterns.
3. Interactive Math Projects
To make learning hands-on, I offer Black History Month Math Review Projects designed for 4th and 5th graders. These projects blend key math skills—multiplication, division, fractions, and data analysis—with historical themes, making them engaging and educational. You can find them on Teachers Pay Teachers and my website!
These activities not only reinforce essential math concepts but also deepen students' understanding of Black history.
4. Problem-Solving with Historical Context
Encourage students to solve real-world math problems inspired by Black historical events. For example:
If a bus boycott lasted 381 days, how many weeks and months was that?
If a jazz musician played 6 shows a week for an entire year, how many performances did they give?
If an entrepreneur started with $500 and doubled their investment every month for six months, how much would they have?
By connecting word problems to historical events, students develop problem-solving skills in a meaningful way.
Why This Matters for Student Learning
Math becomes more engaging when students see its relevance to the world around them. Connecting Black history to mathematics builds cultural awareness while reinforcing math skills. It helps students understand the importance of problem-solving and analytical thinking in history, economics, and social justice.
Additionally, incorporating diverse perspectives in math education promotes inclusivity and ensures that all students feel represented in their learning.
Get Your Black History Month Math Resources
Make February a month of meaningful learning! My Black History Month Math Review Projects for 4th and 5th grade provide an engaging way to celebrate history while reinforcing key math skills. These projects are available on Teachers Pay Teachers and my website—grab yours today!
"This is my favorite project of the year! I love that students learn about famous African Americans while completing fun and engaging real-world problems. My students asked for days to continue this project." - Katie S.
Final Thoughts
By integrating Black History Month into math lessons, we create richer, more meaningful learning experiences for students. Cross-curricular connections allow students to see math in action and appreciate its role in shaping history. Let’s make February a time of discovery, critical thinking, and deeper understanding!
Follow me on Instagram @mathcoachconnection for more teaching ideas and classroom inspiration!
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