Math literacy: Every student’s right

Math literacy: Every student’s right

Author: Ethical Schools September 30, 2021 Duration: 41:48

We speak with Dr. Terri Bucci of the Mathematics Literacy Initiative at Ohio State University, Mansfield. Beginning in kindergarten, the MLI builds on Bob Moses’s Algebra Project. Like reading and writing literacies, students need to understand the language of math to succeed in today’s world. Through shared experiences and reflections, the MLI makes math accessible and fun.  This is Part One of a two-part interview.

Overview

00:00-00:41 Intros

00:41-05:20 The Math Literacy Initiative (MLI)—what it is

05:20-18:56 The Algebra Project’s 5-Step Curricular Process

18:56-21:42 The MLI’s students

21:42-24:16 “All people should see themselves as mathematicians.”

24:16-27:16 Thinking of “everyone seeing themselves as mathematicians” as an ethical issue

27:16-31:12 Defining what it means to “be good at math?”

31:12-39:14 “Abuse” of students in traditional math classes; power and control in classes and in statewide governance of schools

39:14-41:49 Outro

Transcript

Click here to see the full transcription of this episode. 

References


Conversations about education often focus on test scores and curriculum, but there’s a deeper layer that truly shapes a student’s experience. Ethical Schools digs into that layer, exploring what it means to build a learning community grounded in integrity and care. Each week, hosts Amy and Jon sit down with educators and innovators who are actively reimagining schools. You’ll hear specific, grounded discussions about the practical work of creating environments where every student feels safe and respected. The dialogue frequently addresses how to support young people dealing with trauma, moving beyond theory to share actionable strategies that teachers are using right now. More than just problem-solving, this podcast highlights how to empower students themselves to become advocates and changemakers in their own communities. It’s a series that connects philosophy with daily practice, looking at the social and cultural structures within schools through a lens of ethics. For anyone invested in the future of education-whether you’re a teacher, administrator, or simply a concerned community member-this podcast offers a thoughtful and necessary perspective on the foundational values that make education meaningful.
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