How do you make math relevant for your students?

We know units in math are what make the numbers truly mean something. Without a unit, they’re just symbols we manipulate. While I love manipulating numbers and looking for patterns, students don’t always feel the same passion towards it like I do.

So early in the year, I have my first- and second-graders ask an adult at home what 'unit' they work with in their job. The students begin creating math word problems involving those units. For example, one student is solving problems about fire alarms (dad installs them), and another is servicing clients (mom is a massage therapist). I never have students write and solve math problems as passionately as they do during these lessons. Doing this early in the year helps my students see the purpose of math, leading to greater engagement during math.

What approaches do you use to make math relatable and applicable to students' experiences?