Unlocking Mathematical Potential: Strategies for Supporting Bilingual Learners in Mathematics
Supporting bilingual learners in mathematics requires a thoughtful and inclusive approach that acknowledges and embraces the diverse linguistic backgrounds of students. When it comes to mathematics, language can often be a barrier for bilingual learners, making it challenging for them to fully grasp and express mathematical concepts. However, with the right strategies in place, educators and parents can help unlock the mathematical potential of children.
Below I will discuss some basic but effective an timeless strategies that has been proven to make a huge difference.
- Offer materials in both languages. particularly key mathematical terms. This approach might take some of our time in the beginning but as the child learns these concepts the need for translation becomes less. The concept of starting children from what they already know is crucial in learner for all. In the classroom I find that my EAL students do understand mathematical concepts but the language puts pressure on them or block their understanding. Therefore getting key words/concepts into their language not only facilitate quicker and better understanding but it saves time and prevent learner frustration. Overall it develops a stronger foundation in the subject.
2. Incorporating visual aids and manipulatives during math lessons
Visual representations can help bridge the language gap and provide visual cues that support bilingual learners in understanding mathematical concepts. Manipulatives, such as counters, blocks, and number lines, provide a hands-on approach that allows these students to engage with math in a more tangible and concrete way. The thing I like the most about manipulatives is that they can do the teaching with out me speaking. They can enable the child to figure things out with minimal verbal instructions so is able to focus more on the doing. Using math manipulatives during a lesson also brings hands-on learning to the bilingual learner, this can appeal to a multitude of different learners. As you know, not every student learns in the same way. Math manipulatives allow students to work with math in the way that’s best for them. By working independently with math manipulatives, a student is better able to work at their own pace and spend more time on concepts or problems that are particularly difficult for them.
3. Creating a culturally responsive learning environment
This is crucial for supporting bilingual learners in mathematics. Teachers can incorporate real-world examples and culturally relevant contexts into math problems, making the content more relatable and meaningful for these students. Celebrating the diverse mathematical contributions from different cultures can also foster a sense of pride and belonging, encouraging bilingual learners to actively participate and engage in math.
I often get my class to tell me what the key term is in their language. By nature of my class I always have children from a range of countries and more than one of them from each country so that helps when we start discussing what terms mean in their languages. I recently taught a topic on “calculation rules” I was teaching that they always need to do what is in the bracket first, but I had to make sure they knew what a bracket was, so I got them to understand uses of bracket, then they had to tell me what a bracket is called in their language and they discussed this among themselves. Every child in our classroom wants to know that they belong and that they are considered the use of their language in their learning is a key way to achieve this.
4. Promoting effective communication strategies is essential.
Encouraging bilingual learners to express their mathematical thinking in their preferred language, whether it’s their native language or English, can support their understanding and allow for a deeper engagement with the content. Peer collaboration and group work (students with the same first languages can be sat together) can also provide opportunities for students to learn from one another and develop their language and math skills simultaneously.
5. Ongoing assessment and feedback are crucial in supporting bilingual learners’ progress in mathematics.
Regular formative assessments, conducted in a supportive and non-threatening manner, can help identify areas of improvement and inform instructional decisions. Individualized feedback that acknowledges and addresses language-specific challenges can guide bilingual learners towards overcoming obstacles and achieving success. Regularly assessing their understanding and progress allows teachers to identify areas of improvement and tailor instruction to meet their specific needs. Providing constructive feedback that focuses on strengths and areas for growth can empower bilingual learners to continue their mathematical journey with confidence.
In conclusion, supporting bilingual learners in mathematics requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses language barriers, incorporates visual aids, embraces cultural diversity, and promotes effective communication. By implementing these strategies, educators can empower bilingual learners to unlock their mathematical potential and succeed in their math learning journey.
