21st Century Kids: Math Inclusion for Girls

Mona Gilbert, Children's Librarian, Northridge Branch Library,
Girl solving a mathematical problem on the blackboard

“Most of the time I liked school and got good grades. In junior high, though, I hit a stumbling block with math - I used to come home and cry because of how frustrated I was! But after a few good teachers and a lot of perseverance, I ended up loving math and even choosing it as a major when I got to college.”—Danica McKellar

Math Demystified

colorful blocks out of order then in order
Math can be a very frustrating subject for many kids. Are there hidden secrets to understanding mathematics that only a few possess? Fortunately, children’s authors have addressed this dilemma by writing books that make mathematics both fun and accessible for all.

Book cover for How to be a Math Wizard
How to be a Math Wizard
DK

Book cover for Do Not Open This Math Book
Do Not Open This Math Book
McKellar, Danica


Inspirational Stories

girl holding a drawing tablet of a girl with rosy cheeks

Picture book biographies of female mathematicians provide wonderful role models for girls. The following inspirational stories offer examples of overcoming barriers and achieved successes.


Book cover for Margaret and the Moon: How Margaret Hamilton Saved the First Lunar Landing
Margaret and the Moon: How Margaret Hamilton Saved the First Lunar Landing
Robbins, Dean

Book cover for The Girl With a Mind for Math: The Story of Raye Montague
The Girl With a Mind for Math: The Story of Raye Montague
Mosca, Julia Finley

Book cover for How Emily Saved the Bridge: The Story of Emily Warren Roebling and the Building of the Brooklyn Bridge
How Emily Saved the Bridge: The Story of Emily Warren Roebling and the Building of the Brooklyn Bridge
Wishinsky, Frieda

Book cover for Counting on Katherine
Counting on Katherine
Becker, Helaine

Book cover for Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race
Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race
Shetterly, Margot Lee


Career Paths for Girls Good with Numbers

Girl with rocket

Mathematical skills are highly desirable for many occupations in the 21st Century. Additionally, girls with strong math skills have an edge when seeking career opportunities in adulthood.


Book cover for Working In Math
Working In Math
Zuchora-Walske, Christine

Book cover for Find Your Future In Mathematics
Find Your Future In Mathematics
Gunzehauser, Kelly


Real World Math

girls dancing at a dance studio

A common question asked is why it’s necessary to learn mathematics? As math involves critical thinking and problem-solving skills, daily life would be impossible without it. Tasks that are not recognized as involving math skills, generally do. For instance, exercising and even creating a class mural requires mathematical skills and knowledge.


Book cover for What's the Point of Math?
What's the Point of Math?
Davis, Ben Francon

Book cover for Fitness Math
Fitness Math
Marsico, Katie

Book cover for I'm Trying to Love Math
I'm Trying to Love Math
Barton, Bethany

Book cover for The Class Mural
The Class Mural
Price, Justine


 

 

 

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