Honest Math Chat

Send us a textIn this episode, we unpack a big question: What's your vision for math classrooms? From years of visiting classrooms and leading professional development, our guest shares a powerful answer rooted in three values: joy, curiosity, and teacher sustainability. This isn't just an ideal—it's a framework leaders and teachers can work toward right now.

Send us a textEver poured your heart into a math lesson only to hear a groan or a “Can't you just tell us how to do it?” from your students? You're not alone. In this episode, Mona—a former teacher turned math coach—dives into what's really behind those reactions and how to shift them.Ready to turn things around? Mona shares three actionable routines straight from her Word Problem Workshop that help kids engage, take risks, and actually enjoy thinking in math:Start with the Grapple – Let kids wrestle with one rich word problem—no hints, just space to think.Show Your Thinking – Use visuals and whiteboards to highlight the process, not just the final answer.Celebrate Multiple Strategies – Use student sharing time to explore the diversity of ideas, not just the “correct” one.

Send us a textEver looked at your stack of printed math worksheets and thought, “There's got to be a better way”? You're not alone. In today's episode, we're flipping the script on word problems—and showing you how just a few small tweaks can stretch your students' thinking without stretching your copy limit.In this episode, I dive into how to extend student thinking using the problems you already have—no extra pages required. You'll learn what actually makes a word problem “good,” why how you use a task matters more than what the task is, and three easy ways to tweak your current word problems for deeper student reasoning.Whether you're a new teacher looking to build problem-solving confidence or a seasoned educator tired of one-size-fits-all worksheets, this conversation will leave you encouraged, inspired, and ready to transform your math block into a space for real thinking.✨ Resources and Links Mentioned:

Send us a textIs your math classroom a space of empowerment—or quiet struggle? In this episode, we're unpacking what it really means to teach math equitably, with the brilliant Dr. Pamela Seda. Whether you're new to equity work or already deep in the journey, this conversation will challenge and inspire you.In this episode, Jenn chats with Dr. Pamela Seda, math equity leader and creator of the ICUCARE® Equity Framework. You'll learn how math can become a space of empowerment, why releasing control as a teacher can be the most powerful shift you make, and how to move from just “following the curriculum” to intentionally designing for equity.Whether you're a classroom teacher, math coach, or education leader, this conversation will leave you thoughtful, energized, and ready to take one step toward deeper equity in your own space.✨ Resources and Links Mentioned:

Send us a textWhat if the questions you ask in math class could be the key to unlocking deeper thinking and real understanding? Today, we're diving into the one question teachers ask me all the time: “What do I ask to get my students to explain their thinking?” Let's turn those blank stares into lightbulb moments.

Send us a textEver asked a math question and been met with total silence? Or felt like only a few kids are driving the whole conversation? You're not alone — and today we're fixing it.In this episode, Mona dives into the subtle mistakes that can shut down rich math discussions — and the practical shifts that can turn things around. You'll learn: ✅ What common habits unintentionally stifle student thinking ✅ Why these missteps matter more than you think ✅ Small, doable tweaks to spark deeper conversationsWhether you're a K–6 math teacher, instructional coach, or administrator, this episode will leave you inspired and ready to lead powerful discussions where every student thinks, listens, and learns.✨ Resources and Links Mentioned:

Send us a textYou don't need a full-on classroom overhaul to start seeing change. In this episode, we're talking about the “pebbles” — those small irritations or roadblocks in math class — and how you can start removing them with intentional, doable steps.

Send us a textStruggling to get your whole school on board with stronger math instruction? You're not alone! In this episode, I'm sharing the framework I developed after seeing what actually works to transform school wide math culture — without burning out your teachers.In this episode, Mona dives into the SHAPE framework — a 5-part approach to building a consistent, student-centered math program across an entire school. You'll learn:Why quick-fix PDs often fail to move the needleHow to shift teacher mindsets by showing, not tellingWhat sustainable, scalable math success really looks likeWhether you're a school leader, math coach, or teacher who wants more clarity, this conversation will leave you feeling energized and ready to take the next step toward meaningful, lasting math change.✨ Resources and Links Mentioned:

Send us a textIs your school choosing a new math curriculum? Before you dive into samples, demos, and committee meetings, listen in! I'm sharing the top three mistakes schools often make—and how you can avoid them to select a curriculum that truly supports students and teachers.

Send us a textEver feel like your students don't have number sense? In this episode, we're unpacking number sense with our guest, Christina Tondevold. Let's dig in—it's about to get good.

Send us a textThe Problem with “Yet”We've all said it: “They just can't do it… yet.” But what if that tiny word is quietly lowering the bar?In this episode, Mona shares her

Send us a textToday's episode is all about counting—but not just any kind of counting. We're diving deep into how kids think about numbers, quantity, and patterns… and we've got the perfect guest to guide us.I'm thrilled to welcome Christopher Danielson to the show. If you've ever stumbled across Which One Doesn't Belong or How Many?, you already know Christopher's work gets students—and adults—thinking more deeply about math in ways that feel playful, thoughtful, and refreshingly human.We are chatting about: What is countingWhy does counting matterHow to support students through countingLinks mentioned in this episode:

Send us a textToday, we're diving into a tough but important topic: Why are we so afraid to give kids hard math problems? If we're being honest, it can feel uncomfortable to watch students struggle. We want them to feel successful, and sometimes it's tempting to step in and help too soon. But when we rescue students from struggle, we rob them of the chance to build resilience and problem-solving skills.In this episode, we'll talk about why hard problems are essential for deep learning, what holds us back from giving students these challenges, and how we can create a classroom where students see struggle not as something to avoid but as part of the learning process. I'll also share strategies you can use tomorrow to help your students grapple with tough problems while feeling supported. Let's get started!We are chatting about: Why do we avoid giving hard problemsWhy hard problems are essentialHow to support students through hard problemsLinks mentioned in this episode:

Send us a textToday, we're talking about 5 quick math talk strategies that will spark math conversations and increase engagement! As math teachers, we often feel like we're talking at our students. As you know it is easy to fall into the cycle of telling students what to do and how to do it in math. But, deep down what we really want is more engagement. If we're being honest with ourselves talking and telling our students doesn't lead to more engagement. What we really want is to get our students talking with each other about math?In this episode, I'll share a few simple strategies you can use tomorrow to get your students talking, thinking, and collaborating on math problems.We are chatting about: What are Quick Math Talk StrategiesWhy Spark Math ConversationsHow to Spark Math ConversationsLinks mentioned in this episode:

Send us a textIn today's episode, we're talking about comparison problems: what they are, why they're tricky, and how we can help students build strategies to solve them.We're gonna start today's episode with a problem. Omar made 22 baskets during practice. He made 9 more baskets than Eli. How many baskets did Eli make?This is a comparison problem and there are 3 types of comparison problems we can use with students. And they are all hard! We are chatting about: Different types of comparison problemsStudent strategiesTips for planning and facilitating this work in your classroomLinks mentioned in this episode:

Send us a textImagine a student looking at you, frustrated, saying, 'I don't get it.' It's tempting to step in and rescue them, right?Today, we're talking about productive struggle—why it's a game-changer for math classrooms and how to make it happen without letting kids flounder.We are chatting about: What productive struggle isWhy it's important to let students struggle in the math classroomHow to foster productive struggle Links mentioned in this episode:

Send us a textWelcome back to Math Chat! Today's episode is all about how we can break free from the script and let our students lead. Today's episode is going to require a shift in teacher mindset. So, if you are like me and a bit of a control freak, Type A if you will… then I'm talking to you. Letting go of control can actually help students learn more in math. I know it's hard, but it is essential to day's big idea. We are chatting about: What student-centered learning in math isWhy this approach to teaching math worksHow to do this and do it wellLinks mentioned in this episode:

Send us a textIf you've ever seen the spark in a student's eyes when they really get the joy of solving a tough problem, you know what I mean when I say math can be joyful. It's all about creating the right environment.Today, Pi day, we're serving up a slice of math joy by diving into how we can make problem-solving the most joyful part of our math classrooms.We are chatting about: What makes problem solving joyfulWhy use problem solving in math classHow can we create joyful problem-solving in our classroomsLinks mentioned in this episode:

How do we create classroom communities that includes and values each member's expertise? In this episode, I'm sharing my NCTM session with you on empowering learners through math discourse. We're chatting about: How to partner with our students in math discussions to leverage each student's insightsStrategies for teachers to use to build a strong math culture that supports mathematical discourse3 student stories and examples of strategies I used to empower them to engage in math discussionsLinks mentioned in this episode: Word Problem WorkshopCultivating Mathematical Hearts by Maria del Rosario Zavala, Julia Maria AguirreA quote from an article titled “Student Representations at the Center: Promoting Classroom Equity” by Imm, Stylianou, and Chae 2008Choosing to See By Pamela Seda & Kyndall BrownMy example video with NairobiGuide to Engaging Math DiscussionsWhile take a break from the podcast to write my book, enjoy these episodes: Episode 85 with John SanGiovanni Episodes 93 & 96 with Peter Liljedahl Episode 73 Best First Week Activities (you can do these anytime) Episode 107 Math Discussions: 3 Ways to Get Students Engaged Episode 102: Talk less so students will talk more Episode 97: 6 Ways to Love Teaching Math Episode 82: Say This to Parents to Explain “New Math” Episode 2: What is Student Centered Math (A look inside my classroom) Have Questions?

How do we get students to show their reasoning in our math classroom community? On today's episode, I'm sharing about a simple way to build community & student confidence with a simple lesson plan straight from my favorite research based instructional practice... Word Problem Workshop!We are chatting about: What is a math community & why it matters The elements of the lesson plan How each element builds an essential skill for our students' Social Emotional Development!Links mentioned in this episode:

Are your students thinking deeply about math concepts? Today we are talking about having research-based instructional strategies for math to create student-centered classrooms.  We are chatting about: Why research based instruction mattersThe research Word Problem Workshop is based on How you can have peace of mind knowing that the strategies and routines you are using in your classroom are based on researchYou might also like:5 Steps to a Student Centered Math ClassChildren's Mathematics Cognitively Guided Instruction124: Word Problem Workshop - What is it & Why you need it this school yearLeave a review!! If you love listening to Honest Math Chat, please take a few seconds to leave a review so other teachers know this is a valuable place to spend a few minutes each week. 

What math intervention curriculums actually work? This is one of the questions I get asked the most and today I'm excited to chat about all things math interventions with my friend, Juliana!We're chatting about: Having high expectations of our studentsThe important piece math intervention curriculums miss Just in time approaches to math interventionsOther links:8 Ways to Build Math Classroom Community90: Math Trauma and What to Do About It49: 3 Expectations & "Just in Time Supports" in Math Connect with Juliana: @collaborated.with.juliana on Instagramwww.collaboratedwithjuliana.comJuliana's book: Teaching 6-12 Math Intervention: A Practical Framework to Engage Students Who StruggleHave Questions?

Do math grades stress you out? If you are needing to get some grades in the grade book for progress reports, this episode will help you figure out what to grade, when to grade, and how to grade in math. In this episode, we are chatting about: Separating student behaviors and their academic achievement for math grades  Formative assessments for math gradesUnit tests or summative assessments for math grades You might also like:128: What are the 5 Strands of Math Proficiency?101: Math Problem Types & Why They MatterGuide to Engaging Math DiscussionsHave Questions?

Do you use counting collections in your classroom? I have the expert you need to hear from on the show today!Kathy shares practical tips to start using counting collections, helpful routines for counting collections, and how to use counting collections to differentiate our math instruction. You will feel empowered to start using counting collections or to use them in new ways after listening to this episode!In this episode we will chat about: What counting collections are and how they can be used for K-5 studentsHow to integrate fractions and decimals content into counting collections in upper elementary gradesExtension questions to ask after using counting collectionsAbout Our Guest, Kathy: Kathy Minas is a math educator and the founder of The Math Collective. She holds a masters degree in General and Special Education from Teachers College, and her background in special education has shaped her approach to math instruction.Kathy is committed to providing spaces for educators and school leaders to collaboratively deepen their understanding of effective, equity-focused math practices. She collaborates with educators in designing culturally relevant instruction that reflects the experiences and identities of their students, while providing points of entry for all learners.Connect with Kathy: @themathcollective on Instagramwww.themathcollective.comYou might also like:5 Practices for Orchestrating Math Discussions5 Steps to a Student Centered Math ClassHave Questions?

What does it take to build a math community?On this episode, we're talking about 3 things I don't want you to miss in math class to help you forge a community of mathematicians that work together to problem solve through discussing their thinking, taking risks, and learning through mistakes.We are chatting about: Creating entrance routinesHaving discussion structuresMaking room for kids to explain their math thinkingLinks mentioned in this episode:8 Ways to Build Math Classroom Community121: What is Student-Centered Learning?107: Math Discussions: 3 Ways to Get Students to EngageOther episodes you might like:Wait! 3 Common Pitfalls When Trying Something New in MathHave Questions?

You're starting the school year and it's time to set the bar high. Let's talk about how you can get every child engaged now so that they stay engaged all year. In this episode, I'm sharing 3 ideas to get every student engaged in math class.We are chatting about: Community building experiences that build trust, relationships, mindsets, and norms Expectations and how to communicate them and provide accountabilityThe importance of feedback and how it can be used for teachers AND studentsLinks mentioned in this episode:Thanks for the Feedback... I Think? (feedback picture book I mention!)8 Ways to Build Math Classroom CommunityPrinciples to Action: Ensuring Mathematical Success for AllOther episodes you might like:125: 3 Mistakes to Avoid When Planning for the Year110: Building Thinking Classrooms with Maegan GirouxHave Questions?

What does it actually look like for our students to be proficient in math? In this episode, we are talking about the 5 strands of math proficiency and breaking each of them down so we can design our math instruction to help students build their math proficiency in all 5 areas.We are chatting about: Conceptual understandingProcedural fluencyStrategic competenceAdaptive reasoningProductive dispositionAre you wondering What is Math Proficiency? What are the 5 Strands of Math Proficiency? Go and listen to episode #40 "What is Proficiency in Math?"Links mentioned in this episode: 6: Four Simple Steps to Teach Anything and Everything in Math Class5 Steps to a Student Centered Math ClassAdding it Up (A great resource on the 5 strands!)Children's Mathematics Cognitively Guided Instruction (A resource for teaching CGI)32: Elementary Math Teachers: Are you using research based instructional strategy to empower students?

Are you thinking through your classroom management strategies for the new school year? I have the expert you need to hear from on the show today! Jenna shares practical tips so that you can feel confident in your classroom management. You will feel empowered to build strong classroom routines and relationships with your students after listening to this episode. In this episode we will chat about: How to build a strong classroom community (and Jenna's secret sauce!)Practical tips for classroom management (and what Jenna would tell newer teachers about management)Building a strong classroom management foundation at the beginning of the year and referring back to it oftenAbout our guest, Jenna:Jenna has been an elementary educator for 11 years in New York. She has taught second, third, and fourth grade and currently teaches second grade! Jenna wanted to be an educator since she was in second grade. She LOVES supporting educators through her Instagram platform, That Strong Teacher, where she helps teachers become strong and confident in classroom management.Connect with Jenna: @Thatstrongteacher on IGThe Classroom Management PlaybookYou might also like:8 Ways to Build Math Classroom Community87: Why you need SEL in Math Problem Solving...Now!Have Questions?

Have you been thinking about how to establish clear expectations and a strong foundation for classroom management this school year? I'm not a big fan of rules… and this rule is the best rule. On today's episode, I'm telling you about the only rule you need and how to use it. We're chatting about: The one classroom rule that changed the game for meSetting clear boundaries while preserving students' dignity in rule makingHow this rule is equitable, responsive, and provides ownership to studentsLinks mentioned in this episode: Love and LogicHow to Create a Love and Logic Classroom blog postEpisode 75: Proactive Classroom management tips in 4 steps8 Ways to Build Math Classroom CommunityHave Questions?

Are you thinking about planning out your school year? On this episode, we're going to talk about how to plan for your year that includes more than just your scope and sequence.We chat about these 3 planning mistakes and what to do instead: Focusing on the wrong contentMisunderstanding "rigor"Leaving conceptual understanding till the end once kids “get the procedures” Links mentioned in the episode: Planning for a Year of Math ($27 PD)Major math work for each grade level (achievethecore.org)Rigor in Mathematics➡️ What do you think of when you hear the word "rigor?" - Send me your thoughts on IG @hellomonamath 

Are you looking for a way to support your students in building problem solving skills, a deep understanding of math and a positive math mindset? In this episode, we are talking about Word Problem Workshop - my step-by-step plan for teaching problem solving in a student-centered way.  We are chatting about: Moving from the WHAT to the HOW in math Using research to make shifts in how we plan, think about, and facilitate math How Word Problem Workshop is a student-led approach to exploring and understanding mathLinks mentioned in this episode: Word Problem WorkshopMoving From the WHAT to the HOW in Math Class Helping Kids Become Math Problem Solvers5 Steps to a Student Centered Math ClassResearch mentioned in this episode:5 Practices for Orchestrating Productive Mathematics Discussions Children's Mathematics, Second Edition: Cognitively Guided InstructionPrinciples to Actions: Ensuring Mathematical Success for All

Do you struggle with not having the time to create every math task yourself but knowing that what your curriculum has to offer just isn't enough?Take a deep breath, this episode is for you! We are diving into: The pros and cons of math curriculums The pros and cons of teacher created lessonsMy recommendation for how to spend the bulk of your time during math planningLinks mentioned in this episode: My interview with The Kindergarten Cafe podcast on getting new curriculumYear of Word Problems (K-5 for only $29!)High Quality Math Tasks ListYou might like: Principles to Action: Ensuring Mathematical Success for All Guide to Engaging Math DiscussionsWord Problem WorkshopHave Questions?

What are schoolwide math norms and why are they important?In this episode, we're breaking down schoolwide math norms because they are a problem or nonexistent in almost EVERY school. We are chatting about: Why every school should have schoolwide math normsExamples of math normsHow we establish and USE these norms for mathLinks mentioned in this episode: The Math Pact8 Ways to Build Math Classroom Community109: New Math: How to Get Everyone on BoardHave Questions?

What is student-centered learning and why should we use it in math? A student-centered math classroom has students doing the work – the thinking, doing, exploring, figuring out. The teacher is the guide on the side in that exploration and sense making.In this episode, we're chatting about: What student-centered learning is NOT (hint: out of control or easier for kids)The students' role in student-centered mathThe teacher's role in a student-centered classroomHow to plan and facilitate a student-centered math classOther resources for student-centered math: This article from Edutopia scratches the surface & can help you get started.Student Engagement Strategies on this article.What is a math discussion? Questions answered here!4 Simple Steps to Teach ANYTHING in a student-centered math classroom!What is a student-centered math classroom?5 Steps to a Student-Centered Math ClassSend me a DM on Instagram @hellomonamathMATH COACHES: enrollment is open for Math Coach Huddle!

Are you looking for a math coach or to grow as a math teacher? In this episode, we are talking about resources for teachers to use to grow their skills and knowledge (in case you are looking for summer learning opportunities!)We're chatting about: Setting our own goals as a teacherMy favorite resources and PD for teaching mathWhat to do if you don't have the funding to pay for PDLinks mentioned in this episode: Empowering Math Discussions (This course is part 2 of Word Problem Workshop)Word Problem WorkshopMath Coach Huddle One-on-One Virtual Math CoachingFunding Opportunities PDFTraining for AdministratorsYou might also like: 5 Practices for Orchestrating Math Discussions5 Steps to a Student Centered Math ClassMy IG DMs are always open @hellomonamath 

Math teacher friend, you are powerful. I'm here to remind you of the 6 best teacher moves you can make in the math classroom in this upcoming school year! This episode will empower you to see your math teaching for what it truly is... ambitious. We are covering 6 ways you can make the most impact in your math classroom. We are talking about: Practical steps to empower your students in mathThe essence of what makes a great math classHow to create a system to apply these power moves in your classroomLinks mentioned in this episode: Guide to Engaging Math Discussions5 Practices for Orchestrating Math DiscussionsWord Problem WorkshopYou might also like:113: The Only 3 Questions You Need to AskIf you have taken Word Problem Workshop, send me a DM on Instagram  @hellomonamath or an email at hellomonamath@gmail.com. I would love to chat with you!

Does the gradual release model belong in math class? In this episode, I'm going to argue that we do the opposite of the "I Do, We Do, You Do" instructional approach in math. Instead, I am going to walk you through teaching practices I've used to create equitable, student-centered math classes that empower students to BE mathematicians. We are talking about: What the GRR model isThe math research saysHow to flip the GRR model (independent work ➡️  providing support as students remain in the lead ➡️  share ideas ➡️  summarize learning)My favorite books mentioned in this episode:

Are you a math coach or looking to step into a coaching role? If so, learning from other math coaches is a great way to build your skills as a coach. In this episode, I'm interviewing one of the greatest math coaches, Nicora Placa, on her approach to collaborative math coaching, creating learning environments for teachers to hone their craft, and her book filled with tools and practical tips for math coaches. We are chatting about: What collaborative coaching isNicora's 6 tools for collaborative math coachingAnswering FAQs from math coachesAbout our guest, Nicora Placa: Nicora Placa is an assistant professor in mathematics education at Hunter College. Previously, she taught elementary and middle school mathematics in New York City. She is passionate about supporting teachers, honoring their expertise, and creating learning opportunities for them to hone their craft. Her first book “6 Tools for Collaborative Mathematics Coaching” was published by Stenhouse in 2023. She also serves as Coaching Coordinator on the NCSM Leadership in Mathematics Education Board.Connect with Nicora:http://nicoraplaca.comTwitter/ X–  NicoraPlacaYou might also like: Guide to Engaging Math Discussions

Do you have students who struggle to access word problems in math? The truth is our students struggle to get started on word problems because they don't have access. This episode breaks down what access to word problems is and simple ways we can help our students get started with a three-step routine. We are talking about: What a launch routine isThe steps in a launch routineHow to tailor the launch routine to meet your students' needsLinks mentioned in this episode:Launch: Word Problems (A Virtual PD Experience) Word Problem WorkshopYou might also like...5 Steps to a Student Centered Math ClassPrinciples to Action: Ensuring Mathematical Success for All84: Productive Struggle: Building Confident Problem SolversHave Questions?

Are you looking to create a math classroom that allows students to lead even as visitors come in?  In this episode, we are talking about my rules for others as they enter my classroom. These rules allow my students to have the opportunity to lead the thinking and doing of math without being rescued too soon by an on-looker.We're talking about: How a student-centered classroom looks in math Why and how students should lead in a math classroomThe 3 rules I have for people entering my classroom (download them here for free!)Links mentioned in this episode:5 Steps to a Student Centered Math ClassMath Rules for your classroomOther episodes you might like:93: Consolidation with Peter Liljeddahl, author of Building Thinking ClassroomsHave Questions?

Are you looking for practical ideas for teaching Black history in your classroom? I have the perfect interview for you about how to incorporate past and present Black history into your classroom from a teacher who truly understands the classroom perspective. This episode is about teaching Black history year around, not only during Black History Month and practical, simple ways to incorporate it in your classroom. In this episode we'll chat about: The purpose of Black History MonthTeaching Black history year aroundPractical tips for incorporating Black history into your math blockAbout our guest, Dawnavyn James:Dawnavyn James is an early childhood, elementary, and Black history educator, emerging scholar, and Black history researcher. She promotes the importance of Black history education in early childhood and elementary classrooms and is the author of Beyond February: Teaching Black History Any Day, Every Day, and All Year Long which centers her experiences teaching Black histories in elementary classrooms. Dawnavyn is currently pursuing her Ph.D. at the University at Buffalo and is a fellow at the Center for K-12 Black History and Racial Literacy Education.Connect with Dawnavyn: Instagram: @QueendomTeachingBeyond FebruaryAlso check out: Math Person Bulletin BoardLeave a review!If you love listening to Honest Math Chat, please take a few seconds to leave a review so other teachers know this is a valuable place to spend a few minutes each week.Have Questions?

What questions do you need to ask during math? And no, you don't need a long list of questions to have great math discussions in your classroom. This episode is about simplifying the questions you ask during math and listening to student responses to gauge their level of understanding. We are talking about:3 simple questions to ask studentsStudent examplesHow asking questions can help our students think deeply about mathLinks mentioned in this episode: Word Problem WorkshopGuide to Engaging Math DiscussionsOther episodes you might like: 107: Math Discussions: 3 Ways to Get Students to EngageHave Questions?

Do you want to do LESS as a teacher? This episode is about how doing less as a teacher can help our students to do more - while using our time to make the biggest impact possible. We are chatting about: How talking less will give students more time to talkWhen you do less (like giving less problems) students can focus on thinking deeply about one or two problemsSupporting students less allows students to build skills to productively struggle and be empowered to see what they CAN do.Links mentioned in this episode:Research article on accountable talk Adding It Up: Helping Children Learn Mathematics5 Steps to a Student Centered Math Class MonaMath.com/ebookOther episodes you might like:Wait! 3 Common Pitfalls When Trying Something New in MathHave Questions?

Have you ever had a math conference with a student when you ask them to describe their thinking and you are met with a blank stare?This episode is about effective math conferences during grapple time. We need a plan for our math conferences and I'm sharing 5 simple steps to make your math conferences productive and empowering for students!In this episode we will chat about: 5 ways to get students talking and participating in math conferencesSimple phrases to prompt students to share their thinking Frequently asked questions about math conferences like: "How many conferences can you realistically do in a day?" Links mentioned in this episode: “In the Moment, Conferring in the Elementary Math Classroom” by Jen Munson"Making Sense of Mathematics for Teaching the Small Group" by Juli Dixion, Lisa A. Brooks, and Melissa R. CarliGuide to Engaging Math DiscussionsOther episodes you might like: 102: Talk Less So Students Talk More92: Use Purposeful Techniques for Math Discussions, an Interview with Paola SztajnHave Questions?

Are you a primary teacher implementing Building Thinking Classrooms? I have the expert you want to know on the show today!! Maegan Giroux is the co-author of the about-to-release Building Thinking Classroom Tasks book for elementary! Even if you haven't started implementing Building Thinking Classrooms, Maegan is a dream to know! She is passionate about helping students become mathematicians through sense making and thinking. You will feel empowered to get your students thinking after you listen to today's episode with Maegan. In this episode we will chat about: task types and choice curriculum tasks vs. non-curriculum tasks scaffolding tasks for learners while maintaining rigor About our guest, Maegan Giroux:Maegan had an unexpected journey to being a kindergarten teacher. As a middle school math teacher, Maegan loves the opportunity to also teach the youngest students because of the unpredictability and joy they bring each day! For the past 18 months Maegan and Peter Liljedhal have been working on a book full of tasks ready to use in your classroom. Set to release any day!  Building Thinking Classroom: 

Do you hear people talking about "New Math," but you're at a loss for how to convince them it's not so bad? This episode is about getting your school community on board with "New Math." It's good for kids, so we've all got to give it our best shot. In this episode we will chat about: How School culture plays a role in New Math The approach to take when trying something new Questions to ask to shift your math culture Other episodes you might like: Learning Labs (Episode 42) Teacher Leader for Math Culture (episode 34) Links Mentioned: Monamath.com/WebinarWork with me in 2024-25Join me on May 16 at 3:30 pm CST where I'll be sharing my services and a glimpse into working with Chicago Math Group (my math coaching agency). Register for the webinar here: Monamath.com/WebinarHave Questions?

Standardized Test Stress is REAL. Today we're chatting about 3 ideas you can implement now to reduce standardized test stress.In this episode we will chat about: Our goals for standardized tests 3 ways to empower students easy to implement ideas to use in the classroom now Links Mentioned: MonaMath.com/TestPrepHave Questions?

There is no point in having a math discussion if students aren't listening to each other. It is a pointless, waste of time. You're probably like dang, Mona, that's harsh. And it is. But I don't want you wasting your time if it's not paying off. You don't have extra time. I know that and I want whatever you're doing to be well worth your time. I will say that math discussions are the best way to ensure students are able to communicate their thinking and deeply engage in complex math. Math discussions are my FAVORITE instructional strategies. 

Are you an upper grade teacher that is struggling to help your students engage with math meaningfully and build an understanding of math concepts?? Things like multiplying or dividing fractions. If so, this is the podcast episode for you! Even if you aren't struggling, you will love my chat with Brittany who is the teacher behind Mix and Math. She is passionate about helping teachers grow their understanding of the math concepts they teach. You will feel empowered after you listen to today's episode with Brittany. In this episode we will chat about: using representation in mathchanging the culture of using manipulatives in the math classroomtypes of representation About our guest, Brittany HegeBrittany Hege is a math educator who has worked with students and teachers in both upper elementary and middle grades. She holds a master's degree in Elementary Mathematics Education and is passionate about helping teachers grow their understanding of the math concepts they teach. Brittany believes in the power of experiencing math through hands-on work and uses her platform, Mix and Math, to equip upper elementary teachers with the knowledge and confidence to inspire a generation of empowered math learners.  

Teacher professional learning is something I am passionate about and I bet you are too. As a teacher, professional learning is part of who you are, a life long learner. So, when presented with professional learning opportunities and coaching I bet you have opinions. On today's episode we're going to dive into what it looks like to develop as a math educator in the context of professional learning and coaching in the math classroom.In this episode we will chat about: myths and truths about professional learninghow much PD is needed to make a difference in studentsfunding options for professional learningArticles Mentioned: 1️⃣  Dispelling the Myths: What Research Says about Professional Learning2️⃣  Reviewing the Evidence on How Teacher Professional Development Affects Student AchievementFunding Options: NCTMNEA 

Do you have a range of needs in your classroom? Are your students at different levels? As a 3rd grade teacher I was often teaching students who were still figuring out place value between hundreds and tens, while I had others who understood adding 3 digit numbers. It made it difficult to differentiate to meet everyone's needs.  How do you think about differentiation in math?