Common Denominators: Cultivating Engagement and Belonging in Secondary Mathematics

Reengage students in mathematics by creating spaces where all students belong

Engage students in learning mathematics while cultivating a sense of belonging. This helpful guide for secondary mathematics teachers shows you how to shape equitable classrooms by evaluating beliefs and practices that keep students and teachers stuck. Research-backed strategies and personal stories illustrate effective ways to resolve unproductive power dynamics, promote emotional literacy, and create a classroom environment conducive to optimal learning.

This book will help secondary mathematics teachers:

• Develop strategies to discern the reasons students are struggling with mathematics
• Learn sustainable methods for perceiving unasked questions and target solutions focused on underlying needs
• Navigate challenging classroom behavior
• Cultivate a supportive classroom environment and reframe zero-sum interactions with students
• Evaluate traditional grading and assessments and reform current practices to align with research-based best practice and students’ best interests