Building Thinking Classrooms: Finding the Right Balance

Making Math Moments That Matter

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57:50

Alex (@alex_kamenca) and Carley (@carleymitus) are both members of our Action Academy Community that purchased TWO small businesses last thursday! Want To Quit Your Job In The Next 6-18 Months Through Buying Commercial Real Estate & Small Businesses? 👔🏝️ Schedule A Free 15 Minute Coaching Call With Our Team Here To Get "Unstuck" Want to know which investment strategy is best for you? Take our Free Asset-Selection Quiz Check Out Our Bestselling Book : From Passive To Passionate : How To Quit Your Job - Grow Your Wealth - And Turn Your Passions Into Profits Want A Free $100k+ Side Hustle Guide ? Follow Me As I Travel & Build: IG @brianluebben ActionAcademy.com…

about a year ago 27:14

MP3•Episode home

Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units

Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: https://makemathmoments.com/grow/

Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com

Building Thinking Classrooms is praised for promoting engagement and rich discourse, but is there such a thing as too much BTC? In this episode, we explore both the benefits and the potential pitfalls—yes, students are talking more, but are they thinking more? We discuss concerns like over-reliance on group work, the risk of passive participation, and how easy it can be for students to copy rather than truly engage. Join us as we unpack the nuances of this approach and consider how to find the right balance for your classroom.

Key discussion points include:

Building Thinking Classrooms fosters engagement, collaboration, and deep mathematical discourse, making it a powerful approach worth considering.
Too much emphasis on group work can lead to passive participation, uneven contribution, and students copying rather than thinking.
Learn how to implement BTC strategically—balancing structure with flexibility to ensure all students are thinking, not just talking.
Explore ways to integrate BTC effectively without losing sight of individual accountability, diverse learning needs, and varied instructional approaches.

Show Notes

Get a Customized Math Improvement Plan For Your District.
Are you district leader for mathematics? Take the 12 minute assessment and you’ll get a free, customized improvement plan to shape and grow the 6 parts of any strong mathematics program.
Take the assessment

Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don’t want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode #139: "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.

368 episodes

#Math #Science #Iteachmath #Mathematics #Mathletepearce #Mathseducation #Mrorrgeek #Mrorrisageek #Mtbos #Tapintoteenminds #Teaching #Visualizingmath #Jon Orr #Kyle Pearce #Higher Education #Podcasting Education #Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr

Making Math Moments That Matter

Building Thinking Classrooms: Finding the Right Balance

Making Math Moments That Matter

149 subscribers

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units

Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: https://makemathmoments.com/grow/

Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com

Key discussion points include:

Building Thinking Classrooms fosters engagement, collaboration, and deep mathematical discourse, making it a powerful approach worth considering.
Too much emphasis on group work can lead to passive participation, uneven contribution, and students copying rather than thinking.
Learn how to implement BTC strategically—balancing structure with flexibility to ensure all students are thinking, not just talking.
Explore ways to integrate BTC effectively without losing sight of individual accountability, diverse learning needs, and varied instructional approaches.

Show Notes

Love the show? Text us your big takeaway!

368 episodes

All episodes

Making Math Moments That Matter

1
Parent Pushback: How to Teach High Quality Math Instruction Without the Backlash 27:38

2 days ago27:38

27:38

How can we bridge the gap between modern math classrooms and the way our generation learned math? Today’s classrooms look nothing like they did 20 years ago—by design. But while educators are embracing student-centered math that fosters deep understanding, many parents are left confused or concerned. Kelly Green, an experienced educator and math consultant, joins the show to tackle one of education’s most overlooked challenges: bringing parents along in the math transformation. Whether you’re a teacher, coach, admin, or parent, this episode reveals what’s needed to turn resistance into partnership. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: Why traditional math anxiety still haunts both kids and educators—and how to break the cycle. How to proactively communicate instructional shifts to parents (and avoid backlash over things like the delayed standard algorithm). What schools and leaders can do to build strong homeschool math connections that empower—not alienate—families. Press play to learn how you can strengthen your math community by turning parents into partners in the learning journey. Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: https://makemathmoments.com/grow/ Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units Show Notes Love the show? Text us your big takeaway! Get a Customized Math Improvement Plan For Your District. Are you district leader for mathematics? Take the 12 minute assessment and you’ll get a free, customized improvement plan to shape and grow the 6 parts of any strong mathematics program. Take the assessment Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don’t want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode #139: "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.…

Making Math Moments That Matter

1
Transform A Compliance-Driven Math PD Calendar Into Real Change 24:51

6 days ago24:51

24:51

Math professional development is everywhere—but is it actually helping teachers grow? In this episode, we explore Jim Knight’s Outside-In and Inside-Out models of professional learning, diving into why traditional top-down math PD often fails to make an impact and what happens when teachers take the lead in their own learning. Learn how math PD can shift from being a checkbox to a catalyst for real change by aligning with the everyday challenges math teachers face and the students they serve. Whether you lead math PD or participate in it, this conversation will reshape how you think about growth. Key Takeaways: Why outside-in math PD often falls flat, even when strategies are research-based. The power of inside-out math PD in addressing real student needs and fostering ownership. How math leaders and math coaches can support more personalized, impactful professional learning. The role of teacher autonomy and reflection in creating lasting change. Simple shifts to make math PD more relevant, responsive, and effective. Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: https://makemathmoments.com/grow/ Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units Show Notes Love the show? Text us your big takeaway! Get a Customized Math Improvement Plan For Your District. Are you district leader for mathematics? Take the 12 minute assessment and you’ll get a free, customized improvement plan to shape and grow the 6 parts of any strong mathematics program. Take the assessment Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don’t want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode #139: "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.…

Making Math Moments That Matter

1
How to Support All Students Without ‘Watering Down’ the Math: A Look At MTSS 37:42

9 days ago37:42

37:42

Why Your Struggling Students Aren’t Catching Up—Even With Extra Help In this episode, we take a closer look at MTSS—Multi-Tiered System of Supports—through the lens of mathematics. While many schools have a clearer vision of what MTSS looks like in literacy, applying the same structure in math can be more complex. We unpack what Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3 supports mean in a math context, examine the differences between math and literacy intervention models, and explore what current research says about effective practices. From the importance of strong core instruction to the challenges of designing meaningful interventions, we explore how educators can build a math support system that truly works for all students. Key Takeaways: understand how each tier of MTSS translates to the math classroom. reflect on the differences between math and literacy interventions and why a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work. learn what research recommends for effective math support at each tier. recognize the importance of strong Tier 1 instruction as the foundation for all students. leave with practical considerations for designing responsive, aligned math interventions that go beyond pull-out support. Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: https://makemathmoments.com/grow/ Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units Show Notes Love the show? Text us your big takeaway! Get a Customized Math Improvement Plan For Your District. Are you district leader for mathematics? Take the 12 minute assessment and you’ll get a free, customized improvement plan to shape and grow the 6 parts of any strong mathematics program. Take the assessment Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don’t want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode #139: "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.…

Making Math Moments That Matter

1
You Bought a Math Curriculum Resource... Now What? 24:21

13 days ago24:21

24:21

School districts often invest significant time and money into purchasing new math curriculum resources, but all too often, those materials end up collecting dust—or worse, being implemented in ways that dilute their impact. In this episode, we unpack what comes after the purchase. How do you move from adoption to actual transformation in the math classroom? We explore what the research says about effective math curriculum implementation, the common pitfalls that undermine high-quality math tasks, and actionable steps districts can take to ensure materials are used as intended—supporting deeper learning and equitable access for all students in mathematics. Key Takeaways: Buying the resource isn’t the finish line—it’s the starting point of a longer implementation journey. Effective professional learning and ongoing support are essential for helping teachers use materials as intended for math impact. Improper use or over-scaffolding can unintentionally lower the rigor of high-quality tasks. Clear vision, modeling, and consistent messaging from leaders create the conditions for successful implementation. We share insights from implementation science and education research to guide your next steps. Regular feedback loops and math classroom observations help ensure that implementation is both effective and responsive. Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: https://makemathmoments.com/grow/ Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units Show Notes Love the show? Text us your big takeaway! Get a Customized Math Improvement Plan For Your District. Are you district leader for mathematics? Take the 12 minute assessment and you’ll get a free, customized improvement plan to shape and grow the 6 parts of any strong mathematics program. Take the assessment Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don’t want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode #139: "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.…

Making Math Moments That Matter

1
My War Against Algebra Tricks - A Math Mentoring Moment 44:40

16 days ago44:40

44:40

Have you been relying on endless algebra flowcharts to nowhere? Are your students relying on tricks and shortcuts instead of truly understanding math? Are they seeing math as a set of disconnected procedures to apply and success comes when you figure out which procedure applies given a set of inputs? Whether you teach elementary or high school, the tension between teaching for deep understanding and preparing students to "just get the answer" is real. In this episode, veteran math educator Maryann Greenholt shares her candid journey of grappling with how to move beyond procedural teaching—especially in the context of factoring—and what it really takes to help students understand the why behind the math. You’ll learn: Why students at all levels often cling to memorized steps—and how to shift that mindset How using visual and concrete models can deepen understanding, from basic operations to polynomials What it looks like to create a calm, concept-first math classroom that builds confidence and curiosity If you're ready to move beyond surface-level math instruction and foster real meaning for your students, press play now and walk away with insights you can use at any grade. Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: https://makemathmoments.com/grow/ Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units Show Notes Love the show? Text us your big takeaway! Get a Customized Math Improvement Plan For Your District. Are you district leader for mathematics? Take the 12 minute assessment and you’ll get a free, customized improvement plan to shape and grow the 6 parts of any strong mathematics program. Take the assessment Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don’t want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode #139: "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.…

Making Math Moments That Matter

1
How To Lead Effective Math PLCs 27:05

20 days ago27:05

27:05

Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: https://makemathmoments.com/grow/ Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units As a school leader, how can you ensure that teacher collaboration time for math instruction time is truly impactful—not just an extra prep or informal check-in? In this episode, we explore the critical role of leadership in structuring, supporting, and aligning PLCs to improve math instruction. We’ll discuss how to create alignment between Math PLCs, coaching support, and professional development (PD) so that teachers receive cohesive, targeted support that translates into stronger student outcomes. Whether you’re an administrator, instructional coach, or department lead, you’ll walk away with strategies to set expectations, provide meaningful guidance, and ensure collaboration drives instructional improvement. Key Takeaways: Define the goals of PLCs and communicate how they connect to school wide/district wide priorities. Ensure teacher collaboration time is reinforced by coaching cycles and targeted professional learning. Implement predictable meeting agendas that focus on student learning, data analysis, and instructional planning. Train teacher leaders to guide discussions effectively and keep meetings focused. Use observation, teacher feedback, and student data to assess and refine PLC effectiveness over time. Show Notes Love the show? Text us your big takeaway! Get a Customized Math Improvement Plan For Your District. Are you district leader for mathematics? Take the 12 minute assessment and you’ll get a free, customized improvement plan to shape and grow the 6 parts of any strong mathematics program. Take the assessment Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don’t want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode #139: "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.…

Making Math Moments That Matter

1
Maximizing Your PLCs: Turning Collaboration into Real Impact 28:03

23 days ago28:03

28:03

Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: https://makemathmoments.com/grow/ Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units Are your Math PLCs (Professional Learning Communities) or teacher collaboration meetings feeling unproductive? Do they often turn into extra prep time or casual check-ins rather than meaningful discussions that drive student learning? In this episode, we dive into how to reclaim and refocus your Math PLCs so they become a powerful force for improving math instruction. From defining the facilitator’s role to structuring meetings for maximum impact, we’ll share practical strategies to ensure collaboration leads to better student outcomes. If you’re ready to transform your PLCs into high-impact learning spaces, this episode is for you! Key Takeaways: Shift from informal meetings to intentional, goal-driven collaboration focused on student learning. Ensure facilitators, teachers, and leadership teams have clear expectations to maximize efficiency. Implement a predictable meeting structure with data analysis, lesson planning, and instructional reflection. Focus discussions on instructional strategies and student outcomes rather than just operational tasks. Encourage open dialogue, shared decision-making, and accountability to ensure continuous improvement. Show Notes Love the show? Text us your big takeaway! Get a Customized Math Improvement Plan For Your District. Are you district leader for mathematics? Take the 12 minute assessment and you’ll get a free, customized improvement plan to shape and grow the 6 parts of any strong mathematics program. Take the assessment Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don’t want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode #139: "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.…

Making Math Moments That Matter

1
Support or Setback? The Hidden Cost of Front-Loading Support for Math Teachers 15:32

27 days ago15:32

15:32

Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: https://makemathmoments.com/grow/ Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units Teachers are stretched thin, and sometimes they just want clear, actionable guidance. But when does simply downloading information help, and when does it hinder real understanding and adoption? In this episode, we explore the balance between providing direct solutions and ensuring teachers engage in the work themselves to understand the "why" behind new strategies. We also discuss the importance of having champions in each building to support implementation and how to involve teachers in decision-making—even when there's pressure to move fast. Key Takeaways: When providing direct solutions to math teachers’ pebbles is helpful and when it prevents deep learning. Why math teachers need to engage in the work to successfully implement new strategies or curricula. How having key advocates in each building can drive sustainable change in math. How to bring math teachers into the decision-making process, even under time constraints. Show Notes Love the show? Text us your big takeaway! Get a Customized Math Improvement Plan For Your District. Are you district leader for mathematics? Take the 12 minute assessment and you’ll get a free, customized improvement plan to shape and grow the 6 parts of any strong mathematics program. Take the assessment Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don’t want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode #139: "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.…

Making Math Moments That Matter

1
How To Prepare For Your Upcoming Standardized Math Test & Reduce Unwanted Pressure 27:47

4 weeks ago27:47

27:47

Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: https://makemathmoments.com/grow/ Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units As standardized math testing season approaches, many teachers feel the pressure of covering content while ensuring students are prepared. Whether it's state assessments or EQAO in Ontario, the added stress can lead to a scramble to fit everything in. In this episode, we explore effective strategies to maximize learning time without resorting to last-minute cramming. From elementary to secondary classrooms, we share approaches that help students feel confident and capable—without overwhelming them. Key Takeaways: How to make the most of limited instructional time leading up to standardized tests. Productive ways to reinforce key concepts without resorting to ineffective drill-and-kill methods. Practical strategies for both elementary and secondary classrooms. How to balance content review with maintaining student engagement and confidence. Shifting the focus from cramming to meaningful learning experiences. Show Notes Love the show? Text us your big takeaway! Get a Customized Math Improvement Plan For Your District. Are you district leader for mathematics? Take the 12 minute assessment and you’ll get a free, customized improvement plan to shape and grow the 6 parts of any strong mathematics program. Take the assessment Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don’t want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode #139: "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.…

Making Math Moments That Matter

1
How Useful Are Pacing Guides in Math Instruction? Balancing Alignment and Autonomy 34:48

5 weeks ago34:48

34:48

Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: https://makemathmoments.com/grow/ Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units Can schools create consistency in math instruction while still allowing teachers the freedom to meet the unique needs of their students? In this episode, we dive into the tension between alignment and autonomy in math instruction, exploring how pacing guides and common assessments can support equitable, ambitious math teaching—without becoming restrictive. Join us as we unpack what "too much" and "too little" direction looks like and discuss practical ways to establish a strong foundation while honoring teacher expertise and student diversity. Key Takeaways for Listeners: How shared expectations and structures can support equity and improve student outcomes. Signs that pacing guides and assessments have become too rigid—and how to course-correct. Strategies to give educators flexibility while maintaining a common instructional vision. Practical approaches to ensure consistency without stifling responsive teaching. How alignment can work for differentiation rather than against it. Show Notes Love the show? Text us your big takeaway! Get a Customized Math Improvement Plan For Your District. Are you district leader for mathematics? Take the 12 minute assessment and you’ll get a free, customized improvement plan to shape and grow the 6 parts of any strong mathematics program. Take the assessment Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don’t want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode #139: "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.…

Making Math Moments That Matter

1
The Real Magic Behind Math Talk Success In Your Classroom 31:01

5 weeks ago31:01

31:01

Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: https://makemathmoments.com/grow/ Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units In this episode, we explore how math talks have transformed over time to maximize student learning. What started as a quiet, teacher-led process with random student responses has evolved into a dynamic and collaborative experience. By incorporating turn-and-talk strategies, student discourse, and whiteboards for modeling, classroom discussions have become more engaging and purposeful. We also discuss the impact of physical space—how moving students closer to the board fosters better participation and understanding. Tune in to hear how small shifts in structure and environment can lead to powerful math conversations! Key Takeaways: Moving beyond hand-raising to structured student discourse. Encouraging peer discussions before sharing with the whole class. Purposefully choosing student responses to deepen understanding. Helping students visually represent their math reasoning. Positioning students near the board for more engaged discussions. How minor changes in structure can lead to deeper learning. Love the show? Text us your big takeaway! Get a Customized Math Improvement Plan For Your District. Are you district leader for mathematics? Take the 12 minute assessment and you’ll get a free, customized improvement plan to shape and grow the 6 parts of any strong mathematics program. Take the assessment Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don’t want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode #139: "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.…

Making Math Moments That Matter

1
Instructional Recipes For Teaching Math 39:10

6 weeks ago39:10

39:10

Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: https://makemathmoments.com/grow/ Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units Have you ever wished for a simple yet effective way to improve math instruction without overwhelming teachers? Many educators struggle with making math lessons engaging, equitable, and effective. Without clear guidance, teaching methods can vary widely, leading to inconsistent student experiences. But what if there was a structured, research-backed approach that empowers teachers while ensuring high-quality instruction for all students? You’ll learn: Discover how instructional recipes provide clear, research-based strategies that simplify lesson planning while enhancing student engagement. Learn how small, high-leverage instructional changes can lead to significant improvements in student understanding and classroom equity. Gain insights into practical teaching techniques, including effective task launches, student discourse strategies, and how to provide hints and extensions without lowering cognitive demand. Tune in now to explore how instructional recipes can transform your math teaching approach—giving both you and your students a more rewarding experience! Show Notes Love the show? Text us your big takeaway! Get a Customized Math Improvement Plan For Your District. Are you district leader for mathematics? Take the 12 minute assessment and you’ll get a free, customized improvement plan to shape and grow the 6 parts of any strong mathematics program. Take the assessment Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don’t want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode #139: "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.…

Making Math Moments That Matter

1
The Key to Understanding Fractions and Algebraic Thinking 25:53

6 weeks ago25:53

25:53

Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: https://makemathmoments.com/grow/ Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units comparison is a crucial yet often overlooked concept in elementary mathematics. Many students in grades 4-6 struggle with fractions and multiplication, while those in grades 7-8 need a strong foundation to think algebraically. In this episode, we explore how understanding multiplicative comparison can unlock deeper mathematical reasoning and support students' progression. When should we introduce it? How do we leverage it effectively? Join us as we break it down with real-world examples! Key Takeaways: Understanding how it differs from additive comparison. A bridge between multiplication, fractions, and algebraic thinking. How a strong grasp of multiplicative comparison supports algebraic reasoning. Key moments to reinforce the concept in elementary math. Practical ways to help students develop this understanding through rich tasks and discussion. Show Notes Love the show? Text us your big takeaway! Get a Customized Math Improvement Plan For Your District. Are you district leader for mathematics? Take the 12 minute assessment and you’ll get a free, customized improvement plan to shape and grow the 6 parts of any strong mathematics program. Take the assessment Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don’t want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode #139: "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.…

Making Math Moments That Matter

1
Why Math Coaching Might Not Be Sticking (And What to Do About It) 25:47

7 weeks ago25:47

25:47

Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: https://makemathmoments.com/grow/ Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units As an instructional math coach, walking into a classroom means balancing observation with intentional support. But what happens when a teacher is in the early stages of implementing an effective practice? In this episode, we explore how to apply the 5 Practices for Orchestrating Productive Mathematics Discussions to plan meaningful coaching moves. We'll dive into the power of assessing and advancing questions—both for guiding student learning and for fostering rich coaching conversations. How can we anticipate the questions that will move a teacher forward? Let’s practice together and refine our approach to coaching with purpose. Key discussion points include: How to enter a classroom with a clear focus on an effective teaching practice. How to prepare questions in advance to guide reflection and next steps. Real-world examples of assessing and advancing questions in action. How thoughtful questioning supports gradual implementation and teacher growth. Rather than pushing against resistance, this approach amplifies successful implementation. Show Notes Love the show? Text us your big takeaway! Get a Customized Math Improvement Plan For Your District. Are you district leader for mathematics? Take the 12 minute assessment and you’ll get a free, customized improvement plan to shape and grow the 6 parts of any strong mathematics program. Take the assessment Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don’t want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode #139: "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.…

Making Math Moments That Matter

1
Math Rules That Expire: Rethinking Math Tricks & Shortcuts for Long-Term Understanding 31:47

7 weeks ago31:47