Celebrating the Brilliance of Every Student in Math

In most math classes, there’s so much untapped brilliance waiting to be noticed. Often, it’s the same few students who regularly participate and get labeled “good at math.” Meanwhile, students who aren’t as vocal can get overlooked. But here’s the truth—every student is brilliant!

When we listen closely to what students can do, we’re often amazed by their insights. These moments show us that every child is capable of deep mathematical thinking.

Focus on Thinking, Not Just Answers

Math isn’t only about getting the right answer. It’s about the thinking that leads students there. By focusing on mathematical thinking rather than just answers, we create a space where every student’s ideas are valued. Here’s how you can start to make that shift in your classroom:

Highlighting and Celebrating Student Thinking

Math Talks: Giving Every Student a Voice

Math Talks are a great way to get all students involved. Prompts like “How Many?” or “Which One Doesn’t Belong?” invite different strategies and ideas. They encourage everyone to join in and share their thinking.

If you’re struggling to see the brilliance in a quiet or less confident student, try using more visual prompts in your math block. Focus on what that student can contribute. You might be surprised by their insights when they’re given a chance!

Embracing Mistakes: Turning Errors into Learning

We often want to protect students from feeling embarrassed when they give the wrong answer. But by welcoming all answers—right or wrong—we send a clear message: mistakes help us learn.

When leading a Math Talk or Number Talk, acknowledge every answer. Ask students to explain their thinking, and let them change their mind if they realize something new. The goal is learning and understanding, not just getting the correct answer.

Acknowledging All Ideas

Writing down all student ideas, big or small, shows that every thought matters.

I recently heard Graham Fletcher talk about his 3-Act Tasks. He mentioned that sometimes students ask silly questions like, “Whose hairy arm is that?” At first, we might want to dismiss these kinds of questions. But when we acknowledge even the silly wonderings, we show students that their ideas count. If we dismiss them, they may not want to participate next time.

During Math Talks, try writing down every student’s contribution with their name. This simple act highlights their thinking and lets them know their ideas are important.

Reframing How We Label Students

How we label students affects how we see their potential. Instead of thinking of students as “low” or “high” in math, try describing them as “early in their thinking” or “farther along.” This shift reminds us that all students are on a learning journey, each at their own pace.

As Graham Fletcher suggests, changing our language helps us focus on growth. We start to see every student’s brilliance, no matter where they are on the path.

Conclusion: Celebrate Every Mathematician

When we celebrate each child’s brilliance, we create a classroom where math is about discovery and growth. By valuing all student thinking, we show that every student has the potential to shine as a mathematician.

Let’s keep looking for and celebrating that brilliance—it’s there in every child!