Project M² : Math X Murals
School of Education at William & Mary
All children possess an abundance of creativity and imagination that we want to take advantage of in teaching mathematics.
M² is a part of a research project supported by NSF that seeks to learn how to teach mathematical concepts in ways that are creative, dynamic, and highly imaginative.
Based on research led by Professor Gladys Krause at the College of William and Mary, with the support of ESL elementary educator Caroline Finchum and myself as lead artist.
Math X Mural Camp: SUMMER 2022
The First Mural: Re-contextualizing Math Through Word Problems and Language
The M² Project's first mural, completed in summer 2022, brought together multilingual immigrant students speaking Spanish, Pashto, Farsi, and English. The project focused on word problems—particularly fractions and proportions—while emphasizing the role of language in learning, allowing students to integrate multiple languages into both discussion and design.
Students quickly embraced the process, with one exclaiming, “This is not a math camp. We’re having too much fun today!” This moment underscored the project’s goal: breaking the misconception that math must be difficult to be meaningful and instead fostering joy and engagement.
A major challenge arose when limited space prevented the planned image projection. Instead, students used a grid system to scale a smaller design onto the 21' x 9' mural, turning scaling, area, and proportion into hands-on mathematical explorations.
The project reinforced the importance of diverse problem-solving approaches. Problems with multiple solution strategies deepen understanding, while rigid, single-method problems often do not. By integrating students’ languages and lived experiences, the mural redefined math as a creative, inclusive, and dynamic subject.
Math X Mural Camp: SUMMER 2023
The Second Mural: Exploring Geometry and Tessellations
Completed in 2023, the second M² Project mural built on the first by focusing on geometry and tessellations—patterns of polygons fitting together like puzzle pieces—while continuing to emphasize language and culture. This time, the grid system was intentionally integrated into the creative process, allowing students to explore geometric concepts hands-on.
A key highlight was students’ increased independence, as they improvised tools—like using wire and string to trace circles—demonstrating both artistic and mathematical autonomy. The project also incorporated poetry, with students identifying patterns in rhymes and rhythms to explore mathematical beauty through language. By blending math, art, and culture, the mural reinforced mathematics as an interconnected and meaningful part of their world. The theme of this mural also highlighted the creative process itself, guiding students through drafting, revising, and finalizing their work, which is reflected in the piece itself.
Math X Mural Camp: SUMMER 2024
The Third Mural: Mastery and Creative Autonomy
Completed in 2024, the third M² Project mural was entirely student-driven, showcasing their growth in both artistic and mathematical mastery. Spanning multiple walls and extending over doors, this mural pushed students to tackle complex challenges in proportion and design.
A major focus was color creation—students developed their own formulas to mix precise shades, applying ratios and scaling in a hands-on way. Translating small color formulas to cover large wall sections, they even invented their own units of measurement, like “mega drops.” This process deepened their understanding of math in everyday life, from painting to cooking, proving that mathematical thinking is everywhere.
This project is sponsored by The National Science Foundation