Math Chat
Mona, of Mona Math, reveals the mysteries of how to teach elementary math even if you aren't a math person. Discover how you can develop a buzzing student led math classroom. We cover all things math identity, classroom culture, and student centered instructional practices to help you empower students to love and understanding math deeply.
Episodes
Build Belonging in Your Math Class (Part 6 of Creating a Classroom of Problem Solvers)
Send us Fan MailBuild Belonging in Your Math Classroom Do all your students feel like they belong in math class? In this episode of Math Chat, we're wrapping up the Creating a Community of Problem Solvers series by exploring the foundation that holds every other instructional practice together: belonging.You'll hear why students can't become confident problem solvers until they know
Student-Engaged Assessment: Creating a Classroom of Problem Solvers (Part 5)
Send us Fan MailAssessment shouldn't be something we do to students. It should be something we do with them.In this episode of the Math Chat Podcast, we're continuing our Creating a Classroom of Problem Solvers series by exploring the fifth strand of the framework: Student-Engaged Assessment.Too often, assessment data stays in teacher binders, spreadsheets, and data meetings. But what if
Strategic Instruction: Creating a Classroom of Problem Solvers (Part 4)
Send us Fan MailWhen do you actually teach in a student-centered math classroom?Teacher friend... if you've ever wondered that, you're not alone.In Part 4 of the Creating a Classroom of Problem Solvers series, we're talking all about Strategic Instruction—the teaching moves that happen because of what your students show you.We'll unpack why student-centered instruction absolute
Purposeful Fluency: Part 3 of Creating a Classroom of Problem Solvers
Send us Fan MailWhat if math fluency wasn't about speed... but about thinking?In this episode of the Math Chat Podcast, we're rethinking what it means to build mathematical fluency in elementary classrooms. Instead of timed tests and memorization, discover how purposeful fluency helps students develop flexible strategies, notice patterns, explain their reasoning, and build lasting mathem
Creating a Classroom of Problem Solvers: Thinking Routines (Part 2)
Send us Fan MailBefore students can confidently solve problems, they need opportunities to confidently share ideas.We're continuing our Creating a Classroom of Problem Solvers series by exploring one of my favorite places to start: Thinking Routines.These routines create low-pressure opportunities for students to notice patterns, share ideas, compare strategies, justify their thinking, and bu
What Your Math Block Needs & How to Fit It All In (Part 1 of Creating a Classroom of Problem Solvers)
Send us Fan MailCreating a classroom of problem solvers can feel overwhelming when you're trying to fit problem solving, fluency, discourse, assessment, intervention, and curriculum pacing into a single math block.In this episode we're unpacking the six essential elements that help students become confident, capable mathematicians and how these elements work together to create a classroo
How to Launch the Year With a Problem-Solving Mindset in Math Class
Send us Fan MailWhat if the most important thing you teach at the beginning of the year isn’t a routine… but a belief about what math actually IS?In this episode of the Math Chat Podcast, we’re talking about how to launch the school year with a true problem-solving mindset so students learn to think, persevere, discuss ideas, and trust themselves as mathematicians from day one.Because students lea
Reflecting on the School Year as a Math Teacher
Send us Fan MailWhat if before planning next year… you actually took time to recognize how much growth happened THIS year?In this episode of the Math Chat Podcast, we’re talking about meaningful end-of-year reflection for math teachers, how to recognize the shifts that happened in your classroom, and why reflection is one of the most important parts of learning.Before we jump into planning next ye
Why Turn and Talk Is the Key to Student Thinking in Math
Send us Fan MailTurn and talk is one of the most common strategies in math classrooms—but most teachers aren’t using it in a way that actually builds student thinking.In this episode, (part 4 of the Math Discussion Makeover Series) we break down how to use turn and talk intentionally to unlock deeper thinking, increase engagement, and strengthen math discussions.What You’ll Learn:Why turn and talk
Why Your Questions Are Limiting Student Thinking in Math
Send us Fan MailWhat if your math questioning strategies are actually limiting student thinking? In this episode, we unpack why many “open-ended” math questions are really closed in disguise—and how a few simple shifts in your math questioning strategies can unlock deeper thinking and stronger math discussions.After this episode you'll know... How common math questioning strategies can unint
Why Repeating Students Is Killing Your Math Discussions
Send us Fan MailWhat if one of the most common teaching habits is actually training students not to listen?In this episode, we unpack why repeating students during math discussions can quietly kill engagement and what to do instead to build stronger, more meaningful math conversations.What You’ll LearnWhy repeating students reduces student-to-student listeningThe hidden reason students disengage d
Why Your Math Share Time Is Killing Student Engagement
Send us Fan MailIf your math share time feels disengaged, the issue might not be your students… it might be the structure. In this episode, we unpack how one common routine is quietly reducing student engagement and what simple shift can help students listen, think, and fully participate in math discussions.What You’ll Learn: Why bringing student work to the carpet can actually lower student engag
207: You don’t need a new curriculum. You need a different structure.
Send us Fan MailHave you ever found yourself walking around during grapple time unsure of where to go or what to say? This episode taps into that exact moment—when students are at different stages and the instinct is to jump in and fix everything. You’ll discover why the real power of grapple time isn’t in giving answers, but in how you respond to student thinking in math.Most teachers were traine
206: What Actually Changed When One School Rethought Math Instruction
Send us Fan MailYou’ve likely felt this before—leaving a PD inspired, only to return to the same classroom routines the next day. This episode opens with an honest question: if we know what works in math instruction, why aren’t we seeing real change? The answer isn’t more effort—it’s creating the structure and support needed to make math a language of power in every classroom.We’ve explored the pr
205: If You Feel Like Math Isn’t Working… It’s Not You
Send us Fan MailIn recent conversations, we’ve unpacked a common frustration: math instruction isn’t always producing the confident problem solvers we hope for. But what if the issue isn’t effort or ability—what if it’s structure? This episode opens the door to what’s possible when a school shifts how students experience math as a language of power.Here’s the surprising part: nothing new was added
204: Why Math Class Isn’t Building Confident Problem Solvers (And It’s Not What You Think)
Send us Fan MailWhat if the reason students struggle with math problem solving has nothing to do with effort, curriculum, or ability? In this opening, we challenge a common assumption and reveal a powerful truth: the structure of math classrooms is often what holds students back from building confidence. This shift in perspective sets the stage for transforming how we think about teaching math as
203: Why Knowing What To Do Isn’t Changing Your Math Classroom
Send us Fan MailHave you ever walked out of professional development thinking, “That makes so much sense”… only to return to your classroom and teach the exact same way? You’re not alone—and this episode dives into the real reason why knowing better doesn’t always lead to doing better in your math classroom.Here’s the reality: teachers don’t struggle because they lack knowledge—they struggle becau
202: The Problem With Gamifying Math (And What Actually Helps Students Learn)
Send us Fan MailRight now, gamified math platforms are everywhere—and yes, they can feel like a lifesaver. Students are engaged, they’re excited, and for a moment, it feels like learning is happening seamlessly through technology in math classrooms. However, this episode invites you to pause and consider what these tools are actually teaching students about math.At first glance, math games seem to
201: Why Word Problems Feel Hard Even When Students Know the Math
Send us Fan MailMany teachers have experienced this exact moment. Students can add, subtract, and multiply during a lesson, but the moment they see a word problem, everything seems to unravel. In this episode, we explore why word problems in math often feel so challenging—even when students clearly know the computation.One of the biggest shifts in teaching math word problems is understanding the d
200: I Still Believe This after 200 episodes! & 🎁 a free Gift
Send us Fan MailReaching 200 episodes of the Math Chat is more than a milestone—it’s a movement. For two hundred conversations, we’ve challenged the idea that math is just memorizing steps and instead focused on building thinkers through meaningful math word problems and discussion. Most importantly, this episode reflects on what still matters most after years of listening, learning, and growing a
199: Instructional Nudges, Interview with Sam Otten
Send us Fan MailDr. Samuel Otten brings deep expertise and practical insight into helping teachers strengthen mathematical practices in math classrooms. With advanced degrees from Michigan State University and roots at Grand Valley State University, his journey reflects a lifelong commitment to improving math education. In this episode, you’ll discover how his research translates into actionable s
198: Why Math Coaches are the Key to Sustainable Change
Send us Fan MailIf sustainable change in math instruction were simply about trying harder, most teachers would already be there. In this episode, Mona names a truth many educators feel but rarely say out loud: lasting instructional change doesn’t come from more effort alone — it comes from meaningful support. This conversation offers clarity, validation, and a path forward for teachers, coaches, a
197: Math Is a Language of Power an Interview with Stephanie Marrero
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we explore what happens when math instruction moves beyond answers and procedures and into interpretation, questioning, and meaning-making. This conversation invites educators to rethink how math prepares students not just for tests, but for a world shaped by numbers, data, and decisions.At its core, this episode reminds us that teaching math is about more than con
196: A Classroom Moment That Changed How I Teach Problem Solving
Send us Fan MailWhen students were asked to solve independently, things quickly unraveled. Behaviors surfaced, lessons derailed, and reliance on the teacher increased. This wasn’t a lack of effort — it was a lack of confidence, a common barrier in developing effective math problem solvers.After the lesson ended, one question lingered: Do they actually understand the math? Students had learned how
195: Readers Read and Mathers Math, Interview with Deborah Peart Crayton
Send us Fan MailWhat if math classrooms were places where every child saw themselves as capable, curious, and confident? In this episode, we’re joined by Deborah Peart Crayton, founder and Queen Mather of My Mathematical Mind, to explore what it truly means to become a Mather. Together, we unpack how joyful learning, strong identity, and intentional instruction can transform how students experienc
194: What If Students Don’t Know the Math Yet?
Send us Fan MailWhat happens when students haven’t been taught the math yet—but the task is right there waiting? In this episode, I unpack the fear many teachers feel before launching a rich task and explains why that hesitation, while understandable, often blocks the very learning we want. If you’ve ever wondered whether your students are “ready,” this conversation will gently shift how you think
193: Questions to Ask in Math Class
Send us Fan MailWhat if the biggest shift in your math block didn’t come from a new curriculum or tool—but from the questions you ask? In this episode, I explore how intentional math questions can spark deeper thinking, richer conversations, and stronger reasoning, all while requiring teachers to talk less. If you’ve ever felt the urge to jump in and explain, this conversation will feel both chall
192: What Should Students Do, Say, and Think in Math Class & How We Get Them There.
Send us Fan MailWhat should students actually be doing, saying, and thinking in math class? In this episode, I break down this essential question and shifts the focus away from pacing guides, tests, and compliance—and back to student thinking. If you want math class to feel alive, engaging, and meaningful, this conversation sets the stage.So how do we make this happen consistently? The answer isn’
191: When 1st Graders Tackle Multiplication Stories… Magic Happens
Send us Fan MailToday’s episode dives into a question many K–1 teachers ask: Why are we giving multiplication problem types when they’re nowhere in the standards? If you’ve ever wondered whether this is developmentally appropriate, too advanced, or simply “off track,” you’re definitely not alone.But here’s the truth: young children already experience multiplicative situations in real life — and th
190: What Happens When Students Struggle? How We Can Help Without Taking Away the Opportunity to Think
Send us Fan MailIn today’s episode, we’re diving into what really happens when kids struggle—and how to support them without rescuing them from the thinking process. You’ll hear the story of a quiet 3rd grader named Daria and how confidence, belief, and intentional instruction changed her entire trajectory.Many teachers have taught a student like Daria—sweet, shy, unsure, and labeled “below grade
189: My Kindergarten Lesson
Send us Fan MailI’ll start with a confession: I’ve never taught kindergarten. Honestly? I don’t think I could. Kindergarten teachers bring superhuman levels of compassion, patience, and organizational magic. They teach kids how to be at school while also supporting families.Yet I support K–8 math, and as a parent of two kindergarteners, I know exactly what a Monday afternoon classroom feels like.
188: "Let's Just See What They Can Do!"
Send us Fan Mail💭 What “Let’s Just See What They Can Do” Really MeansThis phrase isn’t about tossing students into a problem they can’t handle. It’s about honoring the strategies, intuitions, and lived math experiences they already bring. You’ll hear how the Grapple step in Word Problem Workshop allows students to make sense of the story without the teacher rescuing, modeling, or pre-teaching ever
187: Anchor Moves to Coach in Chaos
Send us Fan MailCoaching often becomes hectic fast. Schedules shift, classrooms get noisy, and teachers feel stretched thin. While the instinct is to fix everything, coaching isn’t actually about fixing at all — it’s about refocusing on student thinking.In this episode, Mona introduces the anchor moves she relies on when coaching feels chaotic. These moves bring clarity, calm, and purpose back int
186: Learning Walks - Getting Better Together
Send us Fan MailHey teacher friends, Mona here! Today we’re diving into one of my favorite ways to grow as a team and strengthen math instruction across a school: Learning Walks. If you’ve never tried one before, don’t worry. By the end of this episode, you’ll know exactly what Learning Walks are, why they work, and how to use them to build collaboration, confidence, and shared vision among teache
185: A Better Way to Use CUBES - Ditch Keyword in Math for Making Sense
Send us Fan MailMany classrooms use the CUBES strategy for solving word problems. It's familiar, structured, and gives students a clear process. However, in this episode, we explore how traditional CUBES may unintentionally encourage students to “hunt for clues” instead of understanding the meaning of the story. Let’s talk about how to shift from keywords to reasoning using the Word Problem W
184: Building Joyful, Equitable Math Classrooms with Kendra
Send us Fan MailWhat does it really look like when students thrive in math? In this inspiring episode, Kendra unpacks what it means to build thriving math communities — classrooms where every child feels seen, confident, and ready to learn. She shares practical ideas and joyful starting points that any teacher can use to bring connection and purpose to math learning.When students thrive in math, i
183: What if We’ve Been Telling the Wrong Math Story?
Send us Fan MailThink about this: how often do you hear a student say, “I can’t do this”? You might wonder, why do they give up so easily? But here’s the truth — it’s not laziness. It’s not a lack of confidence. It’s anxiety.Because each of us has a Math Story. Some stories are good. Some, not so much. Maybe yours began with racing to be the fastest in “Around the World,” or memorizing steps to ge
182: What Matters Most in Math Classrooms? With John SanGioVanni
Send us Fan MailMath education is changing fast — and few people are leading that change more thoughtfully than John SanGiovanni, a math educator, district leader, and author of numerous influential books. In this episode of our math education podcast, John shares the conversations we should be having about teaching math — and what’s getting in the way.John offers a refreshingly candid take on wha
181: Book Launch Day - A Classroom of Problem Solvers Starts Here
Send us Fan MailIt’s here — the Word Problem Workshop book is officially out in the world! Every teacher knows the struggle — students disengaged, confused, or quick to say, “I’m not a math person.” This book was born out of that challenge. It’s a response to years of listening to teachers, watching classrooms, and realizing something had to change.🔗 Listen, Celebrate, and Join the Movement🎧 Tune
180: Kassia - Behind the Dedication - My Editor’s Behind-the-Scenes Thoughts at Shaping the Book
Send us Fan MailIn this special episode of Math Chat, we sit down with Kassia, the brilliant editor who played an instrumental role in shaping the Word Problem Workshop book. With her keen eye and unwavering support, Kassia helped turn ideas into action, ensuring the book would resonate with teachers and make a real difference in math classrooms. Curious about the behind-the-scenes process and the
179: Behind the Scenes of Writing Word Problem Workshop
Send us Fan MailSo, I’m sitting here with my coffee, reflecting on how surreal it feels that Word Problem Workshop is finally a real book — something teachers can actually hold in their hands. Before it hits shelves, I wanted to take you behind the scenes of how it came to life: the “why,” the “how,” and the “who” behind every page. If you’ve ever felt like your students just don’t get it, this ep
178: Mark Golden - Behind the Dedication - Hot Takes From a Teacher Who’s Lived WPW for Years
Send us Fan MailImagine walking into a classroom where math doesn’t just happen on the board, but is a lively conversation in every corner. Mark Golden’s math classroom, especially during Word Problem Workshop (WPW), is where students actively engage, ask questions, and challenge each other’s thinking. The sounds of excited voices collaborating, the visuals of students working on complex problems
177: Word Problem Workshop - Planning
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Math Chat, we dive deep into planning for Word Problem Workshop (WPW) and how to maximize your preparation time. Instead of focusing on what students will do, we’re shifting the focus to how students will engage with and solve math problems. Want to learn how to plan math lessons that encourage deep thinking and problem-solving? Keep reading!When planning math le
176: Amanda - Behind the Dedication - How Doing Hard Things Grows Math Understanding and Confidence
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Math Chat, we welcome Amanda, a teacher who has completely transformed her math instruction through Word Problem Workshop (WPW). Together, we dive into the powerful shifts she’s made in her teaching practice, and how these changes have influenced her students’ growth, confidence, and love for math. If you're looking for inspiration and practical tips for you
175: Step 5 Word Problem Workshop - Reflect
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we dive into the power of reflection in the Word Problem Workshop (WPW). If you're an educator seeking to enhance student learning through meaningful discussions, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Learn how adding just one simple step—Reflect—can shift your classroom dynamic and help your students internalize what they’ve learned.How Reflection
174: Meghan Princehorn - Behind the Dedication - The Gift of Building Classroom Communities Where Every Child Belongs
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we sit down with Meghan Princehorn, a school social worker, to talk about the powerful connection between social emotional skills and success in the classroom—especially in math. Meghan shares insights from nearly two decades of collaboration and practical strategies you can use right away.We explore the “window of tolerance” and how it affects a student’s ability
173: Step 4 Word Problem Workshop - Discuss
Send us Fan MailTalking is my thing—I love it! But in the classroom, I’ve learned it’s not just about giving students time to talk. It’s about teaching them how to discuss math in ways that deepen understanding, build confidence, and move learning forward. In this episode, we dive into the power of math discussions in Step 4 of Word Problem Workshop.Picture it: students in a circle, shoulder to sh
172: Ed Spicer - Behind the Dedication - How One Classroom Opened my Eyes to the Genius Children Carry
Send us Fan MailWhat does it really take to create a classroom where students not only learn math but also trust themselves, their peers, and their teacher? In this episode, I sit down with educator Ed Spicer to talk about building a math classroom community where students are independent, curious, and unafraid of hard things.A Classroom That Changed EverythingWhen I first visited Ed Spicer’s 1st
171: Step 3 Word Problem Workshop - Share
Send us Fan MailDoes your math class feel like only a handful of students ever raise their hands while the rest stay silent? Or maybe your students avoid sharing out of fear of being wrong? You’re not alone—many teachers face this challenge. In today’s episode, we’re diving into Step 3 of Word Problem Workshop: the Share, and how it can transform your math classroom into a motivated community of p
170: Jimmy - Behind the Dedication - A Real Teacher’s Story of How WPW Shifted Learning in his Classroom
Send us Fan MailWhat happens when we stop teaching math as a set of steps to memorize and instead create space for students to explore, question, and discover? In this episode, we dig into how shifting our approach to math instruction can transform classrooms—and mindsets.This episode is packed with insights and practical strategies for making math class more engaging, joyful, and effective. Tune
169: Step 2 Word Problem Workshop - Grapple
Send us Fan MailWe’ve all heard about the importance of productive struggle in math—but what does it actually look like in practice? In this episode, I share why Grapple Time is one of the most powerful parts of Word Problem Workshop, how to prepare students to persevere, and the exact four teacher moves you can make while students are solving.Wondering what this looks like day-to-day? I walk you
168: Step 1 Word Problem Workshop - Launch
Send us Fan MailIt’s a common belief: “My students can’t read, so they need to master simple math first before tackling word problems.” But what if this thinking is actually holding students back? In this episode, we challenge the unproductive idea that kids must learn the basics first, and instead explore how word problems can be the foundation for building math proficiency.The Word Problem Works
167: Go Slow to Go Fast - How Word Problem Workshop Transforms Math Proficiency
Send us Fan MailYou’ve probably heard the saying “Go slow to go fast” — but what does that actually look like in a math classroom? In this episode, we’re tackling one of the biggest challenges teachers face: balancing the pacing guide with the reality of diverse learners. We’ll dig into why slowing down might actually be the most powerful way to accelerate math proficiency for all students.🎧 Liste
166: Kickstarting Problem Solving from Day One
Send us Fan MailIt’s back-to-school season, and if you’re running on caffeine and sheer willpower, this episode is for you. The copy machine is acting up, your prep time is shrinking, and yet—you’re slowly building something amazing with your new class. In today’s episode, we’ll talk about launching word problems in math from the very first week to set the tone for a year of problem-solvers, not j
165: Changing the ‘I’m Bad at Math’ Mindset—One Task at a Time
Send us Fan MailIf you’ve ever had a student say, “I’m just not a math person”, you know how powerful that belief can be. Math identity—how students see themselves in relation to math—can either open the door to learning or slam it shut. In this episode of Math Chat Podcast, we explore how to shift those fixed beliefs by reframing what math is and who it’s for.The Word Problem Workshop (WPW) frame
164: Classroom Routines Made Easy
Send us Fan MailStarting the school year can feel overwhelming—but what if teaching routines didn’t have to be boring? In this episode, I’m showing you how to set up essential classroom routines and build a strong classroom community right from day one. You’ll walk away with ideas you can use immediately to make lining up, group work, and transitions smooth and stress-free.Want to skip the trial a
163: Student Led & Self–Regulated (3 Management Tips Inside)
Send us Fan MailIf your math block feels more like crowd control than joyful problem solving, this episode is for you. We’re talking about how proactive math classroom management strategies can help you stop reacting to behavior and start building a smooth, focused learning environment where students thrive — especially during challenging math work.🛠️ Simple Steps to Implement Proactive Math Class
162: More Isn’t the Answer
Send us Fan MailHave you ever felt like every new math strategy or program is just more to juggle? From colorful problem-solving cards to trendy new resources, it's easy to feel like you're constantly adding to your plate — without seeing deeper learning stick. In this episode, Mona Iehl shares how she stopped the cycle of piling on and started using a student-centered math approach that
161: Vanessa - The Math GuRu
Send us Fan MailWhat do horoscopes and homework have in common? More than you think—especially in the world of inclusive math education. In this episode, Mona sits down with Vanessa Vakharia, aka The Math Guru, to talk about smashing stereotypes, redefining math identity, and using creativity (yes, even astrology!) to reimagine math class as a space for joy and empowerment.🎧 Tune In, Smash the Sys
160: The Math Block — A Mindset Shift for Fitting It All In
Send us Fan MailHave you ever stared at your lesson plans, pacing guide, and testing calendar and wondered: How am I supposed to fit all of this in? If so, this episode was made for you. Host Mona Iehl, math coach and creator of Word Problem Workshop, helps you shift from cramming content to making room for deep thinking, math talk, and student growth.We’ve all asked it: How do I fit it all in? Bu
159: One Problem, Many Levels - How to Differentiate Without 5 Versions of the Lesson
Send us Fan MailIf you're trying to reach every student by creating multiple versions of your math lesson—this episode is for you. Host Mona Iehl, math coach and creator of Word Problem Workshop, shows you how to differentiate effectively without doubling your workload. The secret? One well-chosen, open-ended problem—and the right mindset to support it.Many of us grew up believing that differ
158: SEL in Math Can Boost Student Success
Send us Fan MailIn today’s episode, Mona welcomes special education teacher and SEL expert Allie Szczecinski to unpack a topic that’s often overlooked in math: social emotional learning (SEL). With over 15 years of experience and a brand-new book, Their Best Behavior, Allie shares how weaving SEL into your math instruction can build stronger thinkers, more confident students, and a calmer classroo
157: Yes, It’ll Be Noisy—And That’s a Good Thing
Send us Fan MailIs your math block filled with silence so thick you can hear pencils stretching? This episode is for you. Host Mona Lehl is flipping the script on what a “focused” math class sounds like—and spoiler alert: it’s not silent. Real math thinking creates a buzz, and Mona is here to help you lean into the noise.🔧 3 Ways to Keep the Math Talk Productive Worried the noise will spiral into
156: What Great Math Teaching Looks Like—Even If You’re Just Getting Started
Send us Fan MailIf you've ever scrolled past a flawless math lesson on Instagram and thought, “That could never be me,” this episode is for you. Host Mona—former teacher, math coach, and author of the upcoming Word Problem Workshop—gets real about what it actually takes to be a great math teacher. Spoiler: it’s not perfection or having all the answers. It’s creating the space for your student
155: You Already Have What You Need—Here’s How to Use It Differently
Send us Fan MailHey teacher friend! Have you ever stared at your math curriculum thinking, “This is... fine, I guess?” You don’t hate it—but it’s definitely not lighting a fire for student thinking. In this episode, Mona, a math coach and author, shares why the curriculum you already have might just be your biggest asset—if you know how to use it differently.🛠️ The How: 3 Shifts You Can Make Right
154: Leading a Successful Math Program with Katie Thomas
Send us Fan MailIn 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.🛠️ Try These 3 Professional Learning
153: What to Do When Kids Don’t Want to Think in Math Class
Send us Fan MailEver 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
152: How to Extend Student Thinking (Without More Worksheets)
Send us Fan MailEver 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
151: Shifting to Student Centered Math, with Dr. Pamela Seda
Send us Fan MailIs 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
150: 35 Questions to Get Students Thinking in Math Class
Send us Fan MailWhat 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.🎧 Episode SummaryIn this episode, Mona breaks down the 7 types of questions that sp
149: Common Mistakes That Shut Down Math Discussions (And What to Do Instead)
Send us Fan MailEver 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 studen
148: Plucking Pebbles - Small Shifts That Transform Math Instruction with Jon Orr & Kyle Pearce
Send us Fan MailYou 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.🎙️ Episode OverviewIn this episode, Jon and Kyle chat about what’s really getting in the way of change in the classroom. You’ll learn how to i
147: Beyond the Curriculum - SHAPE-ing Math Success at the School Level
Send us Fan MailStruggling 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 progra
146: Curriculum Selection - 3 Common mistakes to avoid
Send us Fan MailIs 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.🎧 Episode Summary: In this episode, I (Mona!) dive into the nitty-gritty of math curriculum selection. You’ll learn: ✅
145: Number Sense with Christina Tondevold
Send us Fan MailEver 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.🎙️ Episode OverviewIn this episode, Christina dives into Number Sense. You’ll learn:🔑 Tips on Teaching Number Sense🔑 Defining Number Sense🔑 8 Ways to Add Number Sense to Your Classroom…so you can feel confi
144 The Problem with "Yet"
Send us Fan MailThe 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 🔥hot take and breaks down why “yet” isn’t always as empowering as we think and how it can unintentionally mask low expectations. You’ll hear stories from Mona’s own classroom, what a visiting teacher helped her realize, and w
143: Interview Christopher Danielson
Send us Fan MailToday’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—
142: Hard Math Problems are Scary
Send us Fan MailToday, 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-so
141: 5 Quick Math Talk Strategies to Spark Classroom Conversations
Send us Fan MailToday, 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 ourse
140: Understanding Comparison Problems in Math
Send us Fan MailIn 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
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