Empathy Curriculum Connection – Math

Math Sensitivity

Use the mathematical concepts of discreet and continuous to teach empathy. Show a 3 lb. bag of apples. The number of apples in the bag is a discreet number. If you counted the apples, no one could count them differently and come up with a different number of apples. The weight of the bag is continuous. It isn’t exactly 3 lbs. It could be 3.12 lbs. If you have a more precise (sensitive) scale, it could actually be 3.1197, etc. The more precise the scale, the more accurate the answer.  How sensitive is your ‘scale’ when detecting the feelings of others? Older students can further explore precision and accuracy.