Supporting Multilingual Learners in the Math Classroom

This workshop is designed to help educators implement strategies that support multilingual learners (MLs) in developing both mathematical understanding and academic language. Participants will explore how to make math instruction more accessible by integrating language scaffolds, visuals, and discourse opportunities. The session emphasizes creating inclusive environments where MLLs can engage confidently in mathematical reasoning and problem-solving. Teachers will learn how to balance content and language objectives so that all students can thrive in math classrooms.

• Language barriers that limit MLLs’ access to rigorous mathematical content
  
  
• Limited strategies for integrating language development with mathematics instruction
  
  
• Lack of structures that promote meaningful participation of multilingual learners in math discourse

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1. Integrating Language and Math Instruction – Teachers will learn strategies to design lessons that embed language supports, ensuring students simultaneously build math understanding and language proficiency.
   
   
2. Using Scaffolds and Supports – Participants will gain practical tools, such as visuals, sentence frames, and manipulatives, to make abstract math concepts more concrete and accessible for MLs.
   
   

       3. Fostering Mathematical Discourse – Educators will explore methods to structure discussions and collaborative activities that encourage multilingual learners to           share their reasoning, build confidence, and actively participate in problem-solving.