A LOOK BACK
By: Laurie E. Beauvais

The overall objective of this series of lessons is to recognize the work and contributions of women to the field of mathematics. One lesson on Navajo women’s abilities to conceptualize mathematical constructs in their unique weaving is targeted at the stereotype of women having difficulty in sustaining difficult math constructs in their "mind’s eye". These particular lessons have been drawn from the text listed in the resource section below. The lessons themselves are complete with assessment questions and potential hand-outs to students.

STANDARD: All students will be able to identify women (or men if they are underrepresented) who are leaders and achievers in the particular core content curriculum areas.

GRADE LEVEL: 8-12, Mathematics

OBJECTIVE(S): Students will be able to identify leaders in particular core content areas by:

1. Utilizing reading and listening skills, students will be able to describe the achievements of the individual highlighted in the unit.
2. Students will answer critical thinking questions.
3. Students will complete the activities designed to give them an idea of the mathematical/scientific reasoning used in the topic of the unit.
4. Students will develop an appreciation and understanding of the global nature of mathematics and science as it relates to gender neutral achievements.

TIME: 2 -4 class periods

RESOURCE: Multiculturalism in Math, Science, and Technology: Readings and Activities. Addison-Wesley Publishing Company, 1993. (item # 29417) This can be ordered from Dale Seymour Publications, catalog number SD22263, for $32 which includes a poster. Their number is 1-800-237-3142.

MATERIALS: Sample Lesson Plans. Other materials vary by unit

PROCEDURES:

1. Students should read the unit description sheet either individually or as a class.
2. Critical thinking and activity sheets can be completed individually or as a cooperative learning activity.

Three sample lessons have been attached.

HINTS: Read through the entire unit prior to utilizing. You may want to make necessary adjustments to meet the needs of your students.

INTEGRATED ACTIVITIES: Units can be selected to coordinate with a science, social studies, or English unit.