Could creativity and intellectual freedom actually depend on the rote?

Following up on his recent article for the Forum, math teacher Dave Maxham dives into why fundamentals and drills are integral to creativity—not hindrances. Between the "drill and kill" and the "free inquiry" camps lies the golden mean: an understanding that mastery and even delight in the basics allows for real, nimble handling of creative problems.

Chapters:

3:19 Defining automaticity, creativity

7:09 The automatic enables the creative

15:14 Returning to basics, overcoming boredom

19:14 Struggle and humility bear fruit

24:05 Mastery and the intrinsic payoff

27:24 Model delight in your subject

35:13 With low standards, high expectations

42:25 The goals of homework

47:58 Cover less material, emphasize process

55:45 Letting them work it out

Links:

Automaticity and Creativity by David Maxham

Orthodoxy by G. K. Chesterton (see chapter 4, "The Ethics of Elfland")

Just Tell Them: The Power of Explanation and Explicit Teaching by Zach Groshnell

The Digital Delusion: How Classroom Technology Harms Our Kids' Learning—And How to Help Them Thrive Again by Jared Cooney Horvath

Also on the Forum:

Classroom Habits of Attention in the Age of AI featuring Andrew Cantarutti

Mathematics: The Lost Liberal Art featuring Dave Maxham

The Math Problem: Tackling the "I'm Terrible at Math" Mentality featuring Dave Maxham

Featured Opportunities:

Parents' Conference at The Heights School (April 25, 2026) – link coming soon

The Art of Teaching Boys Conference at The Heights School (May 6-8, 2026) – waitlist

Teaching Essentials Workshop at The Heights School (June 22-26, 2026)

Convivium Conference for Teaching Men at The Heights School (November 2026)