In this Where Are They Now? episode, we speak with Tom Marker, a 6th grade teacher from Ohio. Tom is back to update us on how he has progressed moving students away from relying on algorithms towards reasoning and applying strategies when solving problems.

After an update from Tom, you’ll hear the current pebble knocking around in his shoe as he seeks to find balance when it comes to the expectations he holds for students in his classroom and how he can help the parents at home better understand the “why” behind how math is being taught in his classroom. 

This is another Math Mentoring Moment episode where we talk with a member of the Math Moment Maker Community who is working through problems of practice and together we brainstorm possible next steps and strategies to overcome them. 

You’ll Learn: 

• How to ensure that expectations are the right balance for your grade level;
• How you can ensure that you are promoting more thinking in your classroom than mimicking;
• How can we define different levels of success for our students; and, 
• How we can communicate classroom successes with stakeholders at home.

Resources: 

• Episode 129: What is Efficiency In Math Class? – A Math Mentoring Moment
• Egyptian Multiplication via Howie Hua on Twitter
• Make Math Moments Videos to Share With Parents
• Would You Rather Math
• Building Thinking Classrooms [Book] 

Are you a district mathematics leader interested in crafting a mathematics professional learning plan that will transform your district mathematics program forever? Book a time to chat with our team!

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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.