Modern Math Teacher

Let's chat—send me a text!For years, I believed rigorous math instruction meant harder problems, longer assignments, and more work.I don't believe that anymore.In this episode, I share how my definition of rigor has changed, why cognitive demand isn't the same thing as difficulty, and how I intentionally design lessons that promote deeper mathematical thinking without overwhelming students.We'll also explore how routines like Math Wars can move beyond procedural practice by creating opportunities for students to justify, critique, compare, and defend mathematical reasoning.In this episode, you'll learn:Why rigor and difficulty aren't the same thingHow to increase thinking without increasing workloadThe difference between fluency and reasoningHow I build cognitive demand into everyday classroom routinesWhy scaffolds can increase access without reducing rigor

Let's chat—send me a text!The first week of school isn't just about procedures, seating charts, and syllabus review. It's when students begin forming beliefs about what mathematics feels like—and who they believe they are as mathematicians.In this episode, I share how my thinking about the first week has changed over the years, why students walk into our classrooms carrying mathematical identities, and how we can intentionally design experiences that foster confidence, curiosity, and belonging from day one.In this episode you'll learn:Why the first week is about more than classroom proceduresHow students' mathematical identities influence learningThe connection between classroom culture and instructional designSimple questions to help you intentionally design the first weekWhy belonging is one of the most important things we teach

Let's chat—send me a text!One of my favorite classroom projects completely stopped working—and it ended up becoming one of the most important lessons of my teaching career.In this episode, I share the story of a once-successful cell phone plan project that unexpectedly fell flat and how it completely changed the way I think about designing meaningful mathematics.We'll explore why real and relevant aren't always the same thing, how I adapt lessons from Illustrative Math without reinventing the curriculum, and why sometimes the most meaningful part of a lesson isn't the context at all—it's the mathematical thinking.In this episode, you'll learn:Why authentic lessons lose relevance over timeThe difference between real-world math and relevant mathThe planning question I ask before almost every lessonHow I adapt Illustrative Math to better connect with my studentsWhy mathematical practices can be just as meaningful as real-world contextsA classroom story using Glo Germ that led to rich mathematical discussions

Let's chat—send me a text!What if math intervention didn't mean going back three grade levels and trying to fill every gap a student has before they're allowed to move forward?In this episode of The Modern Math Teacher, I'm joined by my friend and math intervention expert Juliana Tapper, author of Teaching 6–12 Math Intervention: A Practical Framework to Engage Students Who Struggle, to talk about a different approach: just-in-time intervention.And selfishly? I had questions.This year I'm teaching an Algebra 1 Pro Lab designed to help students succeed in their grade-level Algebra 1 class, so I asked Juliana to help me think through what that class could actually look like.One of my biggest takeaways was Juliana's staircase approach to intervention.Start with the grade-level skill students need—that's the top of the staircase. Then ask: What do they need to know immediately before they can do that? And what do they need before that?Keep stepping backward until you've identified the essential prerequisite skills students actually need.Instead of trying to fix every gap from the past, we can strategically build the staircase students need to reach the mathematics in front of them.We also talk about:Using the first week to learn how students actually feel about mathematics—and intentionally creating positive new math experiencesThe connection between intervention, math identity, and our recent conversation with Vanessa VakhariaUsing routines like Notice & Wonder, Same & Different, Which One Doesn't Belong, Number Talks, and Number Strings to build confidenceHow non-math contexts (including pictures from your own life!) can help teach these routines while building communityStructuring an intervention class around the content students will encounter in their core math class 1–2 weeks laterMixing kinesthetic learning, explicit instruction, and meaningful practiceHow to use IXL as a planning and differentiation tool rather than parking students in front of a computerUsing pre-assessments to determine which "stair" each student needsCombining small groups, IXL, Math Wars, and engaging whole-group activities based on student needsBuilding foundational fluency through Number Talks, Fun Fact/Fluency Fridays, Throwback Thursdays, and intentional reviewIf you teach students who have unfinished learning, this conversation is packed with practical ways to support what they need without lowering the expectations for where they're going.Connect with JulianaLearn more about Juliana, her intervention resources, and her work with secondary math teachers at CollaboratEd with Juliana.Pick up a copy of Teaching 6–12 Math Intervention: A Practical Framework to Engage Students Who Struggle and check out the free companion resources for the book.You can also find Juliana on Instagram at @collaborated.with.juliana.This podcast is a member of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Better Today. Better Tomorrow. And the Podcasts to Help You Get There.Connect with Kristen:Follow on Instagram @moorethanjustxJoin the Facebook Community: The Modern Math Teachers MovementMore About the Modern Math Teacher PodcastKristen Moore, classroom teacher and instructional coach at Moore Than Just X, empowers modern secondary math teachers to transform the student experience with the strategies and the confidence to implement project-based learning, mastery-based assessment, and student engagement strategies in their classrooms.Whether you're a math education newbie or a seasoned veteran, you'll find something new and inspiring in every episode. You're already a listener, why not join the Movement inside ✨The Modern Math Teachers Movement Facebook group. Join the community of math teachers who are not afraid to shake things up and make math class the best part of the day for our students. So tune in each Tuesday, have some fun, and let's elevate our math teaching game together!*Amazon orders may provide a small affiliate payout at no extra cost to you. These payouts help keep the podcast free for all!

Let's chat—send me a text!We spent the summer reading Math Therapy together—and now we're sitting down with the author herself, Vanessa Vakharia, to talk about what happens when we take these ideas off the page and into our classrooms.And, apparently, what happens when the math teacher needs a little Math Therapy of her own.In this conversation, Vanessa and I start by talking about how Math Therapy has almost become a co-creation. The book may be published, but the work keeps evolving as teachers take these ideas, adapt them, and make them their own. It's one of the reasons we both love podcasting: our thinking doesn't have to stop just because the book—or an episode—is finished.Then Vanessa turns the tables on me as I outed myself as someone who didn't think she had trauma but most definitely did. We unpack one of the experiences I've shared throughout this series: my infamous Honors Geometry polyhedron project and the impact that one experience had on my own mathematical identity.That leads us into a fascinating conversation about what it means to be "honors," why those labels carry so much weight, and why even experienced math teachers can feel anxious about teaching certain courses. (Hello, Honors Algebra 2.)But we don't stop with what happens inside school.We also dig into some of the cultural messages our students are receiving right now—from TikTok trends that make crying in math class part of the joke to shirts with messages like "I'm too pretty to do math."So what the heck are we supposed to do when our students walk into class carrying all of that with them?Vanessa shares practical ways we can provide the just-in-time Math Therapy our students need and gives us questions we can start asking immediately.In This EpisodeI'm not the best time keeper but you can expect these things to be basically rightAround 14 minutes, we dig into what it means to be an "honors" student—or teacher—and why those labels can create anxiety of their own.Around 18 minutes, we tackle the math stereotypes showing up in social media and pop culture and the messages they're sending our students, particularly girls.Around 22 minutes, Vanessa shares what we can do right now in our classrooms to combat those stereotypes and give students just-in-time Math Therapy.Around 24 minutes, she gives us questions we can use to start those conversations with students.And around 28 minutes, Vanessa shares her advice for teachers wondering, Okay, I've read the book. I've listened to the series. Now what do I actually DO?My Biggest TakeawayMath Therapy isn't something we "do" to students.It's an ongoing conversation.It's something students and teachers create together—and it will look different in every classroom because our students, experiences, and teaching styles are different.The goal isn't to perfectly implement someone else's version of Math Therapy.It's to notice the messages students are receiving about who gets to be good at math and intentionally create experiences that help them write a different story.Keep the Conversation GoingAfter you listen, I'd love to know:What message about math do you think your students most need help unlearning this year?Come share your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Vanessa inside The Modern Math Teacher community.Grab Math TherapyIf this is your first episode in our summer book study, you can absolutely go back and listen to the entire series—and grab your own copy of the book to read along:

Let's chat—send me a text!After four weeks of reading Math Therapy together, we've reached the final chapter—and it ends with a powerful reminder.You don't have to become a different teacher.You simply have to become a more intentional version of the teacher you already are.In this episode, I reflect on the biggest lessons from the book, how my own classroom plans have evolved, and why helping students build healthier relationships with mathematics is a journey we'll continue taking alongside them.In This Episode✨ Why professional learning begins with believing something can improve✨ Teaching as a journey rather than a destination✨ Why every teacher's version of Math Therapy should be unique✨ How my Geometry Proficiency Lab has evolved because of this book✨ Teaching authentically and in alignment with your beliefs✨ The connection between Math Therapy and Mel Robbins' "Let Them" philosophy✨ Why one intentional change can have a lasting impactKey TakeawayYou don't have to implement every idea.You don't have to transform your classroom overnight.Choose one meaningful change.Implement it intentionally.Then continue growing alongside your students.This Week's ReflectionAsk yourself:What's one idea from this series you're excited to try?How has your thinking changed during this book study?What mathematical identity do you hope your students develop this year?What would becoming a more intentional teacher look like for you?Community ChallengeJoin us inside the Facebook group and share:✨ The one strategy you're taking into your classroom this year.✨ One way you'll intentionally help students build a healthier relationship with mathematics.Let's celebrate the beginning of a new school year together.Read Along With Us

Let's chat—send me a text!We often tell students:"Progress matters more than perfection."But does our assessment system communicate the same message?In this episode, we're continuing our Math Therapy summer book study with Chapter 7, where Vanessa Vakharia explores the connection between assessment, growth mindset, and mathematical identity.This chapter challenged me to reflect on my own grading practices, my experience with competency-based learning, and the conversations my department is currently having as we continue implementing our new curriculum.In This Episode✨ Why assessment communicates more than grades✨ My journey from competency-based grading to teaching within a traditional grading system✨ The difference between formative and summative assessment✨ Why reassessment should reflect new learning—not simply offer another attempt✨ Connecting "progress over perfection" to grading practices✨ SMART goals that focus on habits, confidence, and growth✨ Breaking learning into "dopamine bites"✨ A student progress tracker I'm building for Geometry Proficiency Lab✨ Helping students collect evidence of their own growthKey TakeawayAssessment isn't just about measuring what students know.It's about communicating what we believe learning looks like.When our grading practices align with our beliefs about growth, students receive a much more consistent message about what it means to learn mathematics.This Week's ReflectionAsk yourself:If students only experienced your assessment system, what would they believe about learning?Does your grading system leave room for growth?How do students measure their own progress?What evidence do students collect that shows they're becoming stronger mathematicians?Community ChallengeJoin us inside the Facebook group and share:✨ One assessment practice that helps students recognize their own progress.✨ One way you intentionally celebrate growth before the final unit assessment.Let's build a collection of ideas that help students see learning as a process rather than a single performance.Read Along With Us

Let's chat—send me a text!How do students begin to see themselves differently in mathematics?In this episode, we're continuing our Math Therapy summer book study with Chapter 6: Makeover.This chapter may be the most personal one yet. It challenged me to reflect on my own math story and reminded me that students don't simply need better grades—they need opportunities to build a healthier mathematical identity.I also share one of my favorite implementation ideas from the book: helping students create a Math-o-GRAPHy, where they graph the highs and lows of their mathematical journey and later use those graphs as authentic mathematical data.In This Episode✨ What math identity really means✨ Why rewriting our math story helps rewire our brain✨ My personal math journey—from Mathlete to math teacher✨ How teachers shape students' mathematical identities✨ The influence of media on students' beliefs about math✨ Why I interpreted Mean Girls a little differently✨ The Math Story Makeover activity✨ Using Math-o-GRAPHy to connect SEL and authentic mathematics✨ Why identity—not ability—is often what changes mostKey TakeawayStudents don't become different mathematicians because we tell them they're capable.They become different mathematicians because they accumulate evidence that they are capable.Every reflection.Every productive struggle.Every meaningful success.Every encouraging conversation.Those experiences help students rewrite their story—and ultimately rewire how they see themselves.This Week's ReflectionAsk yourself:What's your own math story?Which teachers shaped your mathematical identity?What experiences made you the teacher you are today?If your students rewrote their math autobiography in May, what would you hope had changed?Community ChallengeJoin us inside the Facebook group and share:✨ One moment from your own math story that shaped the teacher you've become.✨ One classroom experience that helps students build a healthier relationship with mathematics.Let's collect ideas that help students rewrite their stories one experience at a time.Read Along With Us

Let's chat—send me a text!What if we've been answering one of our students' most common questions the wrong way?When students ask:"When am I ever going to use this?"they're often not asking about future careers.They're asking something much deeper:"Why should I care?"In this episode, we're continuing our summer Math Therapy book study with Chapter 5: Motivate, and exploring how relevance, purpose, and meaningful feedback can transform student motivation.In This Episode✨ Why motivation begins with meaning✨ The difference between real and relevant mathematics✨ Why transferable skills matter just as much as content standards✨ Redefining mathematics as reasoning, problem solving, communication, and critical thinking✨ Redefining success and failure through a growth mindset lens✨ Lessons from Meet the Robinsons and The Magic School Bus✨ Why accountability partners aren't just for students—they're for teachers too✨ How my National Board journey reshaped the way I think about student feedback✨ Why specific feedback builds self-efficacy and motivationKey TakeawayStudents don't always need another real-world application.Sometimes they simply need to understand who they're becoming because they're learning mathematics.Purpose fuels motivation.Meaning sustains perseverance.This Week's ReflectionAsk yourself:How would your students define mathematics?Would their definition match yours?What transferable skills are your students practicing this week?The next time a student asks, "When am I ever going to use this?" how might you answer the deeper question: "Why should I care?"Community ChallengeJoin us inside the Facebook group and share:✨ One way you help students discover the purpose behind mathematics.✨ One strategy you use to build intrinsic motivation without relying on rewards, points, or grades.Let's continue learning from one another as we prepare for a new school year.Read Along With Us

Let's chat—send me a text!How do we create a classroom where students feel safe enough to struggle?In this episode, we're continuing our summer Math Therapy book study with Chapter 4: Moderate.This chapter challenged me to rethink the difference between mathematical challenge and emotional threat. Productive struggle is an essential part of learning mathematics—but unnecessary fear, embarrassment, and fixed labels can prevent students from ever engaging in that struggle.I also share some of my own math stories and how they're influencing the way I'm designing my Geometry Proficiency Lab this year.In This Episode✨ The three meanings of "moderate" in the Math Therapy framework✨ Why moderating math anxiety is both proactive and reactive✨ My own experiences with math trauma in Honors Geometry and Linear Algebra✨ Why students should revisit and rewrite their math stories✨ Wrestling with the balance between cold calling and psychological safety✨ The impact of labels like "honors" and "intervention"✨ The Believe → Behave → Become framework for changing mathematical identity✨ Why teacher language matters✨ Choosing math therapy practices that fit your authentic teaching style✨ My favorite implementation idea: a Math Therapy Classroom AgreementKey TakeawayWe don't help students by lowering expectations.We help students by intentionally creating classrooms where they feel safe enough to meet high expectations.Psychological safety isn't the opposite of rigor.It's often what makes rigor possible.This Week's ReflectionAsk yourself:What labels do your students bring into your classroom?What stories have they attached to those labels?How do your classroom routines communicate safety, belonging, and high expectations?If your students rewrote their math autobiography at the end of the semester, what would you hope had changed?Community ChallengeHead over to the Facebook group and share:✨ One classroom routine you already use that helps students feel psychologically safe.✨ One idea from Chapter 4 that you're planning to implement this school year.Let's build a collection of strategies that help students experience productive struggle without unnecessary fear.Read Along With Us

Let's chat—send me a text!What does it actually mean to be good at math?If you asked your students that question, what would they say?In this episode, we're continuing our summer book study of Math Therapy by Vanessa Vakharia and diving into Chapter 3: Mythbust.While growth mindset may not be the educational buzzword it once was, the ideas behind it remain incredibly important. Students cannot build a healthier relationship with mathematics if they continue believing unhealthy myths about themselves.This episode explores how teachers can help students challenge limiting beliefs, collect evidence of growth, and begin rewriting their mathematical identities.In This Episode✨ Why growth mindset still matters✨ The difference between telling students they can grow and helping them experience growth✨ What it really means to be good at math✨ Why productive struggle is essential for building confidence✨ How the Reticular Activating System (RAS) influences what students notice✨ The role of relevance in learning mathematics✨ Reflection, journaling, and Favorite Mistakes as tools for growth✨ Why evidence—not encouragement alone—changes beliefsKey TakeawayStudents don't develop a growth mindset because we tell them to.Students develop a growth mindset because they experience growth.Productive struggle leads to success.Success creates evidence.Evidence shapes beliefs.Beliefs influence identity.And identity drives behavior.This Week's ReflectionConsider these questions:What does it mean to be good at math?Would your students define mathematical success the same way you do?What evidence are your students collecting about themselves every day?What evidence are they noticing?Community ChallengeThis week, intentionally notice something.It could be:examples of productive strugglemoments of student growthmathematics in everyday lifeevidence of mathematical thinkingThen head into our Facebook group and share what you discovered.I'd also love to hear your answer to this question:What does it mean to be good at math?Read Along With Us

Let's chat—send me a text!Welcome back to our summer Math Therapy book study series!This week we're discussing Chapter 2 and exploring a question many teachers may be asking:What exactly is math therapy?One of the biggest takeaways from this chapter is that math therapy isn't about becoming a licensed therapist. Instead, it's about becoming more intentional about the human side of mathematics.As teachers, we already help students:navigate frustrationrecover from mistakesbuild confidencedevelop resiliencechallenge limiting beliefsMath therapy simply gives us a framework for doing that work more intentionally.In This EpisodeVanessa Vakharia's journey into math therapyWhy teachers already influence students' mathematical identitiesThe Five Ms framework:MythbustModerateMotivateMakeoverMeasureThe connection between Atomic Habits and mathematical identityWhy beliefs shape identity and identity shapes habitsThe importance of bringing your whole self into mathematicsCreating classroom agreements rooted in empathy and belongingRethinking the first two weeks of schoolA Powerful QuestionWhat if the first two weeks of school weren't just about procedures and review?What if they were also about helping students build a healthier relationship with mathematics?This question is shaping much of my planning for Geometry Proficiency Lab and may be one of the most impactful ideas from the chapter.This Week's ReflectionConsider these questions:What are you already doing that supports students' mathematical well-being?How do you build belonging in your classroom?What messages do your students receive about who can be successful in math?Which of the Five Ms do your students need most?Community ChallengeJoin us inside the Facebook group and share:One thing you're already doing that aligns with math therapyOne activity you plan to use during the first two weeks of schoolWhich of the Five Ms you're most excited to learn more aboutLet's learn from each other as we prepare for a new school year.Read Along With Us

Let's chat—send me a text!This week, we're kicking off our summer book study of Math Therapy by Vanessa Vakharia.Rather than providing a chapter-by-chapter summary, this series is designed as a conversation around the ideas that resonate most, the questions they raise, and how they might influence our classroom practices.In Chapter 1, one idea kept surfacing again and again:The stories we tell ourselves about mathematics matter.From cultural stereotypes and family messaging to our own classroom experiences, students often arrive carrying beliefs about who they are as math learners long before we ever meet them.In This EpisodeWhy the "math person" myth is so persistentThe surprising connection between Teen Talk Barbie and productive struggleThe difference between math anxiety and math traumaHow family experiences influence mathematical identityWhat intervention students have taught me about confidence and resilienceQuestions I'm beginning to explore about math trauma in honors classesThis Week's ReflectionConsider these questions:Were you told you were a math person growing up?What messages about mathematics shaped your own identity?How do stress, anxiety, and math trauma show up in your students?Does it look different in intervention classes versus advanced courses?Community ChallengeThis week, start noticing how mathematics is portrayed in everyday life.Look for examples in:TelevisionMoviesSocial mediaAdvertisementsConversations with friends and familyThen share your observations inside our Facebook group. Let's see what patterns emerge when we start paying attention to the messages surrounding mathematics.Read Along With Us

Let's chat—send me a text!You asked, I answered!In this special Listener Q&A episode of The Modern Math Teacher, I'm tackling some of your biggest questions about project-based learning, Building Thinking Classrooms, real-world math connections, and professional learning.Whether you're just getting started with PBL or looking for new ways to make your math classroom more engaging, this episode is packed with practical ideas you can use right away.

Let's chat—send me a text!Struggle Is Learning. Drowning Is Not.One of the biggest lessons I've learned this year is that not all struggle is productive.As math teachers, we want students to wrestle with ideas, persevere through challenges, and make sense of mathematics. But there's a fine line between productive struggle and overwhelming frustration.In this episode, we're exploring what productive struggle actually looks like, why support and rigor aren't opposites, and how to challenge students without leaving them stranded.Because struggle is learning.Drowning is not.

Let's chat—send me a text!What I'm Still Figuring Out About Teaching Honors MathAfter more than 15 years in the classroom, I'm about to do something new:Teach Honors Algebra 2 and Grade-Level Algebra 2 at the same time.And honestly?I'm still figuring out what that should look like.In this episode, I'm sharing the questions I've been wrestling with as I prepare for next year—from rigor and procedural fluency to pacing, grading, and what should actually be different in an honors classroom.Because I don't think honors students need more work.I think they need meaningful opportunities to think more deeply.

Let's talk. Send me a message with your email and I'll get back to you!Are we using technology because it improves learning—or because it's available?After reflecting on student engagement, Chromebook fatigue, and intentional lesson design, I've been rethinking how technology fits into my math classroom.And the more I think about it, the more I realize:

Let's talk. Send me a message with your email and I'll get back to you!Technology isn't going away.But that doesn't mean we should use it for everything.After years of integrating digital tools into my math classroom, I've found myself asking a different question:

Let's talk. Send me a message with your email and I'll get back to you!One of the best things that ever happened to me as a math teacher was teaching multiple grade levels.Because the more I taught Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, and intervention classes together… the more I realized:

Let's talk. Send me a message with your email and I'll get back to you!Can I admit something?There are math concepts I taught for years that I didn't fully understand conceptually myself.I could teach the procedure. I could explain the steps. But true sense-making? That took time.In this episode, I'm reflecting on the math ideas I've come to understand more deeply as a teacher—and how that deeper understanding has completely changed my instruction.

Let's talk. Send me a message with your email and I'll get back to you!Ever had one class LOVE a lesson… and another class completely flop with the exact same activity?Same teacher. Same lesson. Same day.This year completely changed the way I think about differentiation, responsiveness, and what intentional teaching actually looks like in a real math classroom.In this episode, we're talking about:class-to-class differentiationresponsive teachingstudent dynamicsand why consistency does not mean every class should look identical

Let's talk. Send me a message with your email and I'll get back to you!This year changed the way I think about teaching math.Between piloting a new curriculum, beginning National Board Certification, and teaching students with very different needs, I realized something important:

Let's talk. Send me a message with your email and I'll get back to you!Ever feel like your math lessons are… fine, but not really connecting?You're covering the content, following the curriculum—but students aren't fully engaged.In this episode, we walk through a simple, repeatable process to turn any math lesson into a real-world experience—without starting from scratch or spending hours planning.

Think you don't have time for projects? Feel stuck with your curriculum? Worried your students can't handle it?Let's talk about it.In this episode, we're breaking down the 3 biggest myths about real-world math and project-based learning—and why they might be the exact things holding you back.

Think you need a full project-based learning unit to bring real-world math into your classroom?You don't.In this episode, we're breaking down how to start with smaller, meaningful project experiences—without overhauling your entire curriculum or spending hours planning.

Ever tried a math project that should have worked… but didn't?Maybe students were off task, confused, or the math just didn't stick.

Most “real-world math” problems don't actually feel real to students.In this episode, we break down what real-world math really means—and how to make small shifts that help students actually connect to what they're learning.In This Episode:Why most real-world math falls flatThe difference between context and connectionWhat makes math feel meaningful to studentsA simple way to improve your lessons✨ Key Takeaway: Real-world math isn't about the story—it's about the connection.

Not all engagement leads to learning.In this episode, we break down the difference between fun math and meaningful math—and how to start designing lessons that actually stick.In This Episode:Why “fun” doesn't always equal learningThe 3-part framework: real, relevant, rigorousHow to improve your lessons without starting overA simple shift you can try right awayKey Takeaway: Meaningful math = real + relevant + rigorous.Free Guide: Project or Practice?Download here:https://moorethanjustx.myflodesk.com/practiceLet's talk. Send me a message with your email and I'll get back to you!This podcast is a member of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Better Today. Better Tomorrow. And the Podcasts to Help You Get There.Connect with Kristen:Follow on Instagram @moorethanjustxJoin the Facebook Community: The Modern Math Teachers MovementMore About the Modern Math Teacher PodcastKristen Moore, classroom teacher and instructional coach at Moore Than Just X, empowers modern secondary math teachers to transform the student experience with the strategies and the confidence to implement project-based learning, mastery-based assessment, and student engagement strategies in their classrooms.Whether you're a math education newbie or a seasoned veteran, you'll find something new and inspiring in every episode. You're already a listener, why not join the Movement inside ✨The Modern Math Teachers Movement Facebook group. Join the community of math teachers who are not afraid to shake things up and make math class the best part of the day for our students. So tune in each Tuesday, have some fun, and let's elevate our math teaching game together!*Amazon orders may provide a small affiliate payout at no extra cost to you. These payouts help keep the podcast free for all!

When students ask this question, it's not about attitude.

If your students feel disengaged during math class… it's probably not you.

Artificial intelligence is quickly becoming part of everyday classroom life—but the real conversation may be bigger than whether students should be using it.Students using AI isn't the real story.The real story is what their use of AI is revealing about how school currently works.In this episode, I'm joined by Aron Boxer, CEO and Founder of Diversified Education Services and a former special education teacher and executive functioning specialist. Aron has more than 15 years of experience working with students and families and brings a relationship-based perspective to how students learn and develop.Together, we explore what the rise of AI in education may actually be revealing about our current system.Instead of focusing only on the technology itself, we dig into deeper questions:Why has student AI use accelerated so quickly?What does that trend tell us about the way students experience school?What does meaningful human development look like in a world where information is no longer scarce?For math teachers and classroom educators, this conversation also raises an important challenge: if technology can generate answers instantly, how do we design learning experiences that still prioritize reasoning, problem solving, and human connection?This episode offers a thoughtful perspective on the future of learning and the skills students need most in an AI-driven world.In This Episode We Discuss✔ Why students are rapidly adopting AI tools ✔ The difference between cheating and adaptation ✔ How AI may be exposing deeper shortcomings in our education system ✔ Why banning AI may not solve the real problem ✔ The skills schools should prioritize when information is no longer scarce ✔ How teachers can preserve human connection and authentic thinking in AI-rich classroomsAbout Our GuestAron Boxer is the CEO and Founder of Diversified Education Services. A former special education teacher and Director of Special Services, Aron specializes in executive funLet's talk. Send me a message with your email and I'll get back to you!This podcast is a member of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Better Today. Better Tomorrow. And the Podcasts to Help You Get There.Connect with Kristen:Follow on Instagram @moorethanjustxJoin the Facebook Community: The Modern Math Teachers MovementMore About the Modern Math Teacher PodcastKristen Moore, classroom teacher and instructional coach at Moore Than Just X, empowers modern secondary math teachers to transform the student experience with the strategies and the confidence to implement project-based learning, mastery-based assessment, and student engagement strategies in their classrooms.Whether you're a math education newbie or a seasoned veteran, you'll find something new and inspiring in every episode. You're already a listener, why not join the Movement inside ✨The Modern Math Teachers Movement Facebook group. Join the community of math teachers who are not afraid to shake things up and make math class the best part of the day for our students. So tune in each Tuesday, have some fun, and let's elevate our math teaching game together!*Amazon orders may provide a small affiliate payout at no extra cost to you. These payouts help keep the podcast free for all!

You spend the time grading. You write the comments. And then students look at the grade and move on. Sound familiar?In this episode, Kristen tackles two of the biggest feedback problems math teachers face: feedback that comes too late to matter, and feedback that isn't personalized enough to actually help. She walks through the real tools she's using in her classroom to solve both — so your judgment as a teacher can reach every student, faster.Tools mentioned:ChatGPT / Claude (feedback prompt template included in episode)Snorkl — instant AI feedback on student math explanationsKiddom — AI feedback built into your LMSBrisk — rubric-based personalized feedbackThis week's challenge: Pick one tool and try it on your next assignment.

Lesson plan AI is everywhere — but is it actually helping teachers?In this episode, we explore what teachers truly need from AI lesson plan generators and why many educational technology trends miss the mark. You'll learn how AI can support planning, differentiation, and feedback without adding more overwhelm.In this episode, we cover:Why many AI lesson plan generators fall shortWhat teachers actually need from lesson plan AIHow teaching with technology can protect teacher energyPractical ways AI can support instructional decision-making

How can AI be used in education without killing  thinking?In this episode, we explore how teachers can use AI education tools responsibly — without replacing productive struggle or meaningful learning. You'll learn how AI can support lesson planning, reflection, and feedback while keeping student thinking at the center.You'll hear about:Why AI itself isn't the problem — design isHow AI literacy helps teachers use tools responsiblyPractical ways AI can support teacher planningWhat responsible AI use actually looks like in math classrooms

What if 10 million students could tell us what keeps them engaged in math — and what pushes them away?In this episode, I sit down with veteran educator Sheila Robitaille (30 years in classrooms and administration across the U.S. and Canada, now with 3P Learning) to unpack what nearly two decades of World Maths Day participation reveals about math engagement, productive struggle, and that critical middle school-to-Algebra transition.This conversation isn't just about a contest. It's about what happens to students' confidence when abstraction increases — and how we can protect curiosity while raising rigor.In This Episode, We Discuss:

Productive struggle is an essential part of effective math teaching strategies, but it only works when teachers plan intentionally for what comes next.In this episode, we explore instructional teaching strategies that help students reflect, receive feedback, and formalize learning after challenging math tasks. You'll hear examples of teaching strategies mathematics teachers use to turn struggle into lasting understanding.Topics include:Teaching strategies that support reflection after struggleHow feedback differs from fixing student thinkingWhy formalizing learning matters in math instructionIf you want your math lessons to lead to deeper understanding—not just effort—this episode will help you close the gap.Let's talk. Send me a message with your email and I'll get back to you!This podcast is a member of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Better Today. Better Tomorrow. And the Podcasts to Help You Get There.Connect with Kristen: Follow on Instagram @moorethanjustx Join the Facebook Community: The Modern Math Teachers Movement More About the Modern Math Teacher Podcast Kristen Moore, classroom teacher and instructional coach at Moore Than Just X, empowers modern secondary math teachers to transform the student experience with the strategies and the confidence to implement project-based learning, mastery-based assessment, and student engagement strategies in their classrooms. Whether you're a math education newbie or a seasoned veteran, you'll find something new and inspiring in every episode. You're already a listener, why not join the Movement inside ✨The Modern Math Teachers Movement Facebook group. Join the community of math teachers who are not afraid to shake things up and make math class the best part of the day for our students. So tune in each Tuesday, have some fun, and let's elevate our math teaching game together!*Amazon orders may provide a small affiliate payout at no extra cost to you. These payouts help keep the podcast free for all!

 In this special capstone episode of The Modern Math Teacher Podcast, I'm joined by John SanGiovanni, co-author of Productive Math Struggle, for a reflective conversation on what productive struggle looks like in real classrooms—and how educators can support it intentionally.This episode wraps up our six-part Productive Math Struggle mini-series and is guided by questions shared directly from teachers I've been working with across my district and county. Together, we reflect on the impact of this work, common challenges teachers face, and practical ways to support student thinking, perseverance, and confidence in math.

Productive Math Struggle Series — Action 6: Reflecting on Productive StruggleIn the final episode of our Productive Math Struggle series, we explore the power of reflection — the often-missing piece that transforms struggle into lasting learning.Grounded in research from Phillips (1987) and Sousa (2008), this episode focuses on how intentional reflection helps students make meaning of both what they learned and how they learned it. We share simple, flexible reflection routines that reinforce productive struggle, strengthen math identity, and build habits of perseverance.

Productive Math Struggle Series — Action 5In Part 5 of our Productive Math Struggle Series, we shift from planning to real-time classroom action: What do you actually do when students struggle?Instead of panicking, rescuing, or over-explaining (we've ALL been there), we walk through five high-leverage, easy-to-implement teacher moves that keep struggle productive — not painful. Using insights from Warschauer (2014), Smith & Stein's 5 Practices, Mona Iehl, and practical classroom experience, this episode gives you the exact moves to support student thinking without stealing the learning.

Productive Math Struggle Series — Action 4: Plan a Lesson with Productive StruggleIn Part 4 of our Productive Math Struggle series, we dig into the HEART of rigorous math instruction: lesson planning that intentionally creates space for student thinking, sense-making, and meaningful struggle.If you've been craving practical, teacher-ready strategies for selecting or modifying tasks, anticipating student thinking, and balancing conceptual understanding, fluency, and application — this is your masterclass.

Productive Math Struggle Series — Action 3: Build Community for Productive StruggleIn Part 3 of our Productive Math Struggle series, we're diving into what may be the single most important ingredient of productive struggle: Community is not a “nice-to-have.”

Productive Math Struggle Series — Action 2: Foster an Identity for Productive StruggleIn Part 2 of our Productive Math Struggle series, we dive into one of the most powerful — and overlooked — components of rigorous math learning: math identity.This episode explores the roots of math identity, how trauma and early experiences shape student beliefs, and the practical tools teachers can use to help every student believe, “I am a math person.”

Part 1 of 6 in the Productive Math Struggle SeriesToday we kick off our 6-part series inspired by Productive Math Struggle by John SanGiovanni, Susie Katt, and Kevin Dykema. In this episode, we unpack Action 1: VALUE the Productive Struggle — and explore why getting stuck is one of the most powerful things that can happen in your math classroom. If you're ready to shift from “right answer math” to “thinking-first math,” this is your episode.

Ready to jump start classroom discourse in your math class in 2026? Get your students eagerly discussing math with these active teaching strategies!Enjoy this replay of: Episode #133 Active Teaching Strategies That Actually Spark Student Discussion to find out the best teaching strategies to engage your students in mathematical discourse!Inside you'll learn: ✅ Why passive instruction is killing engagement ✅ 3 go-to talk strategies you can use tomorrow ✅ Cooperative teaching strategies that build confidence and collaboration ✅ What NOT to do if you want students to participateLet's talk. Send me a message with your email and I'll get back to you!This podcast is a member of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Better Today. Better Tomorrow. And the Podcasts to Help You Get There.Connect with Kristen: Follow on Instagram @moorethanjustx Join the Facebook Community: The Modern Math Teachers Movement More About the Modern Math Teacher Podcast Kristen Moore, classroom teacher and instructional coach at Moore Than Just X, empowers modern secondary math teachers to transform the student experience with the strategies and the confidence to implement project-based learning, mastery-based assessment, and student engagement strategies in their classrooms. Whether you're a math education newbie or a seasoned veteran, you'll find something new and inspiring in every episode. You're already a listener, why not join the Movement inside ✨The Modern Math Teachers Movement Facebook group. Join the community of math teachers who are not afraid to shake things up and make math class the best part of the day for our students. So tune in each Tuesday, have some fun, and let's elevate our math teaching game together!*Amazon orders may provide a small affiliate payout at no extra cost to you. These payouts help keep the podcast free for all!

Middle and high school math classes benefit from classroom routines and procedures just as much as our elementary counterparts!Do your classroom routines need a reset as we head into the second half of the school year? Enjoy Episode #130- 3 Must-Have Classroom Routines That Actually Work in Secondary Math.✅ In this episode:Why routines work better than rules3 plug-and-play routines for entry, discourse, and group workTips for launching these routines in the first weeks of schoolHow to use AI to scaffold structure and save your energyA free planning guide to help you get started 

Making the shift from teacher-led to student-centered teaching practices doesn't have to be a struggle. And you don't have to make the change to your instructional strategies alone!Enjoy Episode 132:Student-Centered Teaching in Math Class-- your favorite episode this year on creating a student-centered classroom!You'll learn: ✅ What student-centered really means in a math class ✅ 3 small shifts to get started (no overhaul required) ✅ How structure and autonomy can coexist ✅ Why this shift leads to deeper student engagementLet's talk. Send me a message with your email and I'll get back to you!This podcast is a member of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Better Today. Better Tomorrow. And the Podcasts to Help You Get There.Connect with Kristen: Follow on Instagram @moorethanjustx Join the Facebook Community: The Modern Math Teachers Movement More About the Modern Math Teacher Podcast Kristen Moore, classroom teacher and instructional coach at Moore Than Just X, empowers modern secondary math teachers to transform the student experience with the strategies and the confidence to implement project-based learning, mastery-based assessment, and student engagement strategies in their classrooms. Whether you're a math education newbie or a seasoned veteran, you'll find something new and inspiring in every episode. You're already a listener, why not join the Movement inside ✨The Modern Math Teachers Movement Facebook group. Join the community of math teachers who are not afraid to shake things up and make math class the best part of the day for our students. So tune in each Tuesday, have some fun, and let's elevate our math teaching game together!*Amazon orders may provide a small affiliate payout at no extra cost to you. These payouts help keep the podcast free for all!

What does student engagement really look like in a math classroom?Enjoy this replay of Episode 129: Student Engagement Strategies That Actually Work in Math Class-- your favorite episode on boosting student engagement this year!✅ In this episode:Why boring math isn't your fault—and why you're not stuck thereWhat I learned from seeing problem-based math instruction in actionThe small shifts that lead to big engagement winsHow AI can help you plan student-centered lessons fasterA free guide to help you start making math more meaningful 

Let's make math class relevant-- and spoiler alert it's more than just adding in a few real-world math problems to your worksheet or doing a once a year hands on math project.Enjoy this replay of Episode 126: What Makes Math Feel Relevant? Isn't it just Practical Examples of Real World Math? It's your TOP downloaded episode this year all about making math relevant!Let's talk. Send me a message with your email and I'll get back to you!Join me for the January 2026 Book Study of Productive Math Struggle!Grab your copy from Amazon or your favorite book store and be ready to explore the 6 point framework with me in January!*Affiliate Link at no extra cost to you! This podcast is a member of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Better Today. Better Tomorrow. And the Podcasts to Help You Get There.Connect with Kristen: Follow on Instagram @moorethanjustx Join the Facebook Community: The Modern Math Teachers Movement More About the Modern Math Teacher Podcast Kristen Moore, classroom teacher and instructional coach at Moore Than Just X, empowers modern secondary math teachers to transform the student experience with the strategies and the confidence to implement project-based learning, mastery-based assessment, and student engagement strategies in their classrooms. Whether you're a math education newbie or a seasoned veteran, you'll find something new and inspiring in every episode. You're already a listener, why not join the Movement inside ✨The Modern Math Teachers Movement Facebook group. Join the community of math teachers who are not afraid to shake things up and make math class the best part of the day for our students. So tune in each Tuesday, have some fun, and let's elevate our math teaching game together!*Amazon orders may provide a small affiliate payout at no extra cost to you. These payouts help keep the podcast free for all!

The holidays are hectic—but learning doesn't have to be. Kristen shares six classroom-tested, low-prep activities that keep math engaging when attention spans are short.You'll learn how to: ✅ Use real-world data in a Holiday Data Challenge ✅ Turn review into a game with Rapid Review Showdown ✅ Get students moving with a Math Scavenger Hunt ✅ Launch a one-day Holiday Mini-Project ✅ Create excitement with a Math Escape Room ✅ Let students design their own questions for review 

Finals week doesn't have to be a panic button. In this episode, Kristen redefines assessment as feedback, not judgment—and shares five active teaching strategies that make review week engaging, equitable, and meaningful.You'll learn how to: ✅ Turn review into reasoning with the 3-Round Review ✅ Use an Error Hunt to target misconceptions ✅ Celebrate growth with a Final Show-and-Tell ✅ Run a Station Rotation for multiple representations ✅ Let students lead with a Teach-Back Tournament 

In this episode, Kristen shares why she decided to pursue National Board Certification now—and how that lens is already reshaping daily teaching moves. You'll hear concrete strategies you can use this week (with or without NBC):You'll learn how to…✅ Plan one “evidence moment” per lesson to capture real mathematical thinking✅ Orchestrate discussions with 5 Practices (selecting & sequencing who shares)✅ Create safe math spaces that elevate status and reduce math trauma✅ Move from concept → vocabulary so terms actually stick✅ Design finals review that pushes reasoning, not just recallMentioned: