October is Black History Month, and in celebration, we will be highlighting some key figures across history throughout the month and the contribution they have had to Mathematics and STEM. We will be sharing resources throughout the month for you to use within your classrooms to help #ReclaimingNarratives.
The contributions of Black mathematicians throughout history have been both remarkable and often overlooked. Their achievements are not only significant in the advancement of mathematical sciences but also play a crucial in fostering diversity and inclusion in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. For students, particularly underrepresented students, seeing mathematicians who look like them succeeding in a discipline historically dominated by white males can have a profound impact. It is important that we celebrate these mathematicians and share their accomplishments within the classroom as they serve as powerful role models to young people. It fosters a sense of belonging and shows that excellence in mathematics is achievable regardless of background. The stories we will be sharing over the month will highlight the importance of perseverance, talent, and passion in overcoming barriers.
Reclaiming the Narrative
This year’s Black History Month theme is “Reclaiming Narratives” and emphasises the importance of telling authentic stories that reflect the contributions of Black individuals. Especially in fields where their achievements have been overlooked or marginalised. The AMSP aims to support you in including the narratives of black mathematicians from both history and the present day within your classroom. This not only provides relatable role models for your Black Heritage students but also showcases to all students that math is for everyone. We hope that you enjoy the resources over the month and that you include them in your lessons and share them with your departments. We believe that Black History should not just be celebrated over a month but also embedded into your curriculum so that the contributions of a diverse range of mathematicians are showcased year-round.
Resources
We are happy to announce that for 2024 we have two brand new resources, one for KS3/4 and one aimed at KS4 (but can be extended to KS5).
The Pythagoras resource, in particular, fits well with the theme of this year’s Black History Month, “reclaiming narratives.”
Maths games from around the world (KS3 & KS4 and possibly KS5)
Appreciate maths from other cultures by exploring games from around the world with a focus on problem-solving and strategy.
Proving the Pythagorean Theorem (KS4)
Explore some of the appearances of the Pythagorean Theorem in ancient texts in order to better appreciate how maths has developed in a range of diverse cultures.
Other Resources
Black Mathematicians poster Black Heroes of Maths Free Download Poster! | ICMS – International Centre for Mathematical Sciences
Nira Chamberlin The Black Heroes of Mathematics, Nira Chamberlain | LMS BHoM (youtube.com)
Anne-Marie Imafidon on fighting for diversity and equality in science BBC Radio 4 – The Life Scientific, Anne-Marie Imafidon on fighting for diversity and equality in science
If you would like more resources and activities around diversifying the mathematics curriculum, see our Padlet Diversifying the Mathematics Curriculum (padlet.com)
Visit our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion – AMSP page to see how the AMSP is working towards an inclusive and diverse culture within the maths classroom.
Resources for Students
With Insight (withinsightedu.org) “We empower black-heritage students to embrace their limitless potential through mentorship and skill development programmes.”
Resources for Under-Represented Ethnic Groups | Guides – InsideUni
Levelling Up: Stem nurtures A-level students from underserved groups in Maths, Physics & Chemistry who may be planning to study a STEM subject at university.
Levelling Up: Maths – School of Mathematical Sciences (qmul.ac.uk)