Social-Emotional Learning and Mathematical Processes

by Megan Bacchus · February 27, 2022

The Social-Emotional Learning and Mathematical Processes strand was added to the 2020 Math Curriculum in Ontario, although the concepts are not new to any modern math classroom. If social-emotional learning (SEL) is taught alongside of math, students will be able to communicate effectively, respond appropriately to stress, deal with mistakes, and apply what they learn to the real world. A growth mindset and social-awareness are necessary for teaching and learning mathematics.

Let’s talk about questions, books, and other resources to support social-emotional learning.

What is Strand A – Social-Emotional Learning and Mathematical Processes

“Strand A focuses on the development and application of social-emotional learning (SEL) skills while using mathematical processes. These skills support students’ understanding of mathematical knowledge, concepts, and skills and foster their overall well-being and ability to learn while helping them build resilience and thrive as mathematics learners.”

https://www.dcp.edu.gov.on.ca/en/curriculum/elementary-mathematics

Here’s a link to a one page document with the Strand A curriculum.

There are no specific expectations under the overall expectation because they show up in the application of skills throughout the other curriculum expectations. They are taught and assessed in all areas.

The social-emotional learning skills are intertwined with the mathematical processes and they work together through Strands B-F.

The 7 Mathematical Processes

problem solving
reasoning and proving
reflecting
connecting
communicating
representing
selecting tools and strategies

The 6 Social-Emotional Learning Skills

Identification and Management of Emotions
Stress Management and Coping
Positive Motivation and Perseverance
Healthy Relationship Skills
Self-Awareness and Sense of Identity
Critical and Creative Thinking

Three Questions for Teachers to Consider when Planning a Math Task:

How might students learn to identify and manage their emotions through this problem?
What mathematical processes might students use to solve this problem?
How can you address the Social-Emotional Learning Skills during consolidation of this problem?

Learning Goals and Questions for addressing the SEL skills in Strand A

Build Relationships and Communicate Effectively

I can work well with different partners and groups.

I share my ideas.

I ask questions.

I give respectful feedback.

I can work with a group to make a decision.

Talk about someone you saw who showed respect/listening/kindness/empathy/conflict resolution/friendship. What did they do? How did that make you feel?
What are some respectful words you can use when you disagree with someone?
How can you add on to another person’s idea respectfully?

Books to Support this Social-Emotional Skill:

The Big Umbrella by Amy June Bates

Swimmy by Leo Lionni

Identify and Manage Emotions

I notice when I feel stress.

I can cope with challenges.

I can identify how I am feeling.

I can identify how others are feeling.

How would you feel if you solved an easier problem?
Would you feel different or the same if you solved a harder problem?
How would you feel if a friend was having a hard time in class?
What can happen when we get frustrated?
What can happen when classwork is challenging?

Books to Support this Social-Emotional Skill:

The Color Monster by Anna Llenas

The Color Monster - A Story About Emotions by Anna Llenas

The Way I Feel by Janan Cain – Lesson Plan

My Body Sends a Signal by Natalia Maguire

Recognize Sources of Stress and Cope with Challenges

I know what helps me feel calm when I’m stressed.

I know that stress is okay.

I can build my resilience.

Model a “think aloud” to show the self talk you use and how you respond to difficulties
Provide a problem with missing information, talk about the feelings and strategies, and then give the missing information
What can you do when you feel stressed?
What will help you build resilience?

Books to Support this Social-Emotional Skill:

Beautiful Oops by Barney Saltzburg – Lesson Plan (Follow-up activity: Journal writing and documenting their own mistakes and how they dealt with stress.)