This week we chat with Sara VanDerWerf, former K-12 Math Lead with Minneapolis Public Schools who taught grades 7 through 12, the President of the Minnesota Council of Teachers of Mathematics, and independent mathematics consultant. Lean in as we chat with Sara about her journey from being a fast “calculator” in her own K through 12 learning experience to focusing on making student thinking visible in the classroom. We can’t wait to dive into Sara’s backstory as well as some great tips and resources for your own teaching practice.  

 

You’ll Learn: 

1. How to help students see it before you show them and say it before you tell them; 
2. Why asking kids to notice and wonder is so important as well as how to lead this protocol successfully in your own classroom; 
3. Why Vertical Non-Permanent Surfaces (VNPS) are so helpful in math class;
4. How to use Stand and Talks as an easy way to get kids moving and promote mathematical discourse in your classroom; and, 
5. What the difference is between focusing questions and funnelling questions. 

 

Resources: 

Sara VanDerWerf.com [Website] 

John Hattie on Inquiry Based Learning. 

Add annie fetter’s ignite 

Curiosity Path

Stand and Talks

Episode 21: Peter Liljedahl

Why I believe cell phones should be in the math classroom [ BLog post]

Chris Luzniak [Debate Math] 

Backwards bike

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