When we think about math tools, the first thing that comes to mind for most of us are calculators and rulers. Yes, these are math tools, but many other items are considered math tools, and some of them might even surprise you!

In this episode, we dig into Math Practice 5: Use appropriate tools strategically, and explore what it looks like when students aren’t just using math tools but choosing them, reasoning with them, and making sense of problems through them.

We’ll talk about what counts as a math tool, why the word “appropriate” matters, and how to create a classroom culture where tools support deep thinking, not just right answers.

Links mentioned in this episode:

✅ Standards For Mathematical Practice

✅ Math Practice 5

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