Our Projects
Mindful Mathletes
Inspired by Stanford Graduate School of Education professor Jo Boaler's Mathematical Mindsets, Mindful Mathletes is uniquely designed to foster 4-8th graders' mathematical thinking, problem solving skills, and positive attitudes in math learning. The program aims to nurture growth mindsets and mathematical mindsets in students--positively shaping students' beliefs about their math abilities and their relationship with math. In each meeting, students will collaborate on a fun and challenging math task and explore multiple creative solutions; they will also delve into a fascinating psychology concept behind math learning, such as understanding growth v.s. fixed mindset, depth v.s. speed, etc. The program consists of 12+ detailed lesson plans and engaging presentations.
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Learn about our approach to Mindful Mathletes here.
In 2024, Mindset Math partnered with the National Math Foundation to create a kinesthetic (movement-based) version of the Mindful Mathletes curriculum, incorporating playful elements into traditional lessons and further enhancing students' engagement!
STEM & Stitches
Where art meets math and science...
STEM & Stitches is a unique educational program blending math, crochet, environmental science, biology, chemistry, engineering, and other subjects. Designed for students in 4th grade and up, the program will teach various topics, such as the magic of Euclidean and non-Euclidean geometry, the art of crochet, and the beauty and ecological importance of coral reefs. As a final project, students will create posters on their topics of interest and exhibit their crochet work in schools or online galleries, raising awareness about climate change and showcasing the intersection of math, community art, and science. The interdisciplinary program aims to spark the students’ interest in various fields and help them see the interconnections among the fields; meanwhile, the program incorporates sustainable development goals (SDGs) into the instruction. The program's design is inspired by the amazing work of mathematician/artist Daina Taimina and environmental activist Margaret Wertheim.
Around the World in 80 Math Problems
Around the World in 80 Math Problems (AWI80MP) is a collaborative project between Mindset Math and the National Math Foundation (NMF). This innovative program reimagines math instruction by integrating kinesthetic and movement-based learning strategies with diverse real-world applications, spanning fields such as engineering, medicine, finance, ecology, music, architecture, and CS. Mentored by NMF’s director and other educational experts, high school interns will design engaging multisensory math activity guides tied to careers of their interests. This project culminates in one or a series of after-school events where high school interns use their designed activity guides and NMF-funded teaching tools to teach elementary and middle schoolers in their communities. The project, also an internship program, provides a platform for high schoolers to strengthen their teaching and leadership skills and build their expertise in research, reading, writing, and creative communication, ultimately providing clarity around the question of “how do we make math learning more enjoyable and relevant for kids”?
The list does not end here. We always welcome new project ideas!
First ATWI80MP group meeting with the Kirby Schoephoerster, director of National Math Foundation