👉 Excuse math is a pedagogical approach that acknowledges and validates students' feelings of frustration, confusion, or lack of confidence when encountering mathematical problems that seem insurmountable. It involves creating a supportive environment where students feel safe to express their struggles and explore alternative solutions without the pressure of immediate correctness. By allowing students to "make excuses" for their difficulties, teachers can help them reframe their mindset, fostering resilience and a growth-oriented attitude towards learning mathematics. This approach encourages deeper thinking, problem-solving skills, and persistence, ultimately leading to better mathematical understanding and confidence.