Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: https://makemathmoments.com/grow/ 

Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com 

Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units

Teachers are stretched thin, and sometimes they just want clear, actionable guidance. But when does simply downloading information help, and when does it hinder real understanding and adoption? In this episode, we explore the balance between providing direct solutions and ensuring teachers engage in the work themselves to understand the "why" behind new strategies. We also discuss the importance of having champions in each building to support implementation and how to involve teachers in decision-making—even when there's pressure to move fast.

Key Takeaways:

• When providing direct solutions to math teachers’ pebbles is helpful and when it prevents deep learning.
• Why math teachers need to engage in the work to successfully implement new strategies or curricula.
• How having key advocates in each building can drive sustainable change in math.
• How to bring math teachers into the decision-making process, even under time constraints.

Show Notes 

Love the show? Text us your big takeaway!

Get a Customized Math Improvement Plan For Your District.

Are you district leader for mathematics? Take the 12 minute assessment and you’ll get a free, customized improvement plan to shape and grow the 6 parts of any strong mathematics program.

Take the assessment

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.

Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: https://makemathmoments.com/grow/ 

Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com 

Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units

As standardized math testing season approaches, many teachers feel the pressure of covering content while ensuring students are prepared. Whether it's state assessments or EQAO in Ontario, the added stress can lead to a scramble to fit everything in. 

In this episode, we explore effective strategies to maximize learning time without resorting to last-minute cramming. From elementary to secondary classrooms, we share approaches that help students feel confident and capable—without overwhelming them.

Key Takeaways:

• How to make the most of limited instructional time leading up to standardized tests.
• Productive ways to reinforce key concepts without resorting to ineffective drill-and-kill methods.
• Practical strategies for both elementary and secondary classrooms.
• How to balance content review with maintaining student engagement and confidence.
• Shifting the focus from cramming to meaningful learning experiences.

Show Notes

Love the show? Text us your big takeaway!

Get a Customized Math Improvement Plan For Your District.

Are you district leader for mathematics? Take the 12 minute assessment and you’ll get a free, customized improvement plan to shape and grow the 6 parts of any strong mathematics program.

Take the assessment

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.

Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: https://makemathmoments.com/grow/ 

Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com 

Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units

Can schools create consistency in math instruction while still allowing teachers the freedom to meet the unique needs of their students? In this episode, we dive into the tension between alignment and autonomy in math instruction, exploring how pacing guides and common assessments can support equitable, ambitious math teaching—without becoming restrictive. 

Join us as we unpack what "too much" and "too little" direction looks like and discuss practical ways to establish a strong foundation while honoring teacher expertise and student diversity.

Key Takeaways for Listeners:

• How shared expectations and structures can support equity and improve student outcomes.
• Signs that pacing guides and assessments have become too rigid—and how to course-correct.
• Strategies to give educators flexibility while maintaining a common instructional vision.
• Practical approaches to ensure consistency without stifling responsive teaching.
• How alignment can work for differentiation rather than against it.

Show Notes

Love the show? Text us your big takeaway!

Get a Customized Math Improvement Plan For Your District.

Are you district leader for mathematics? Take the 12 minute assessment and you’ll get a free, customized improvement plan to shape and grow the 6 parts of any strong mathematics program.

Take the assessment

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.

Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: https://makemathmoments.com/grow/ 

Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com 

Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units

In this episode, we explore how math talks have transformed over time to maximize student learning. What started as a quiet, teacher-led process with random student responses has evolved into a dynamic and collaborative experience. By incorporating turn-and-talk strategies, student discourse, and whiteboards for modeling, classroom discussions have become more engaging and purposeful. We also discuss the impact of physical space—how moving students closer to the board fosters better participation and understanding. Tune in to hear how small shifts in structure and environment can lead to powerful math conversations!

Key Takeaways:

• Moving beyond hand-raising to structured student discourse.
• Encouraging peer discussions before sharing with the whole class.
• Purposefully choosing student responses to deepen understanding.
• Helping students visually represent their math reasoning.
• Positioning students near the board for more engaged discussions.
• How minor changes in structure can lead to deeper learning. 

Love the show? Text us your big takeaway!

Get a Customized Math Improvement Plan For Your District.

Are you district leader for mathematics? Take the 12 minute assessment and you’ll get a free, customized improvement plan to shape and grow the 6 parts of any strong mathematics program.

Take the assessment

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.

Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: https://makemathmoments.com/grow/ 

Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com 

Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units

Have you ever wished for a simple yet effective way to improve math instruction without overwhelming teachers?

Many educators struggle with making math lessons engaging, equitable, and effective. Without clear guidance, teaching methods can vary widely, leading to inconsistent student experiences. But what if there was a structured, research-backed approach that empowers teachers while ensuring high-quality instruction for all students?

You’ll learn: 

• Discover how instructional recipes provide clear, research-based strategies that simplify lesson planning while enhancing student engagement.
• Learn how small, high-leverage instructional changes can lead to significant improvements in student understanding and classroom equity.
• Gain insights into practical teaching techniques, including effective task launches, student discourse strategies, and how to provide hints and extensions without lowering cognitive demand.

Tune in now to explore how instructional recipes can transform your math teaching approach—giving both you and your students a more rewarding experience!

Show Notes

Love the show? Text us your big takeaway!

Get a Customized Math Improvement Plan For Your District.

Are you district leader for mathematics? Take the 12 minute assessment and you’ll get a free, customized improvement plan to shape and grow the 6 parts of any strong mathematics program.

Take the assessment

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.

Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: https://makemathmoments.com/grow/ 

Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com 

Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units

 comparison is a crucial yet often overlooked concept in elementary mathematics. Many students in grades 4-6 struggle with fractions and multiplication, while those in grades 7-8 need a strong foundation to think algebraically. In this episode, we explore how understanding multiplicative comparison can unlock deeper mathematical reasoning and support students' progression. When should we introduce it? How do we leverage it effectively? Join us as we break it down with real-world examples!

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding how it differs from additive comparison.
• A bridge between multiplication, fractions, and algebraic thinking.
• How a strong grasp of multiplicative comparison supports algebraic reasoning.
• Key moments to reinforce the concept in elementary math.
• Practical ways to help students develop this understanding through rich tasks and discussion.

Show Notes

Love the show? Text us your big takeaway!

Get a Customized Math Improvement Plan For Your District.

Are you district leader for mathematics? Take the 12 minute assessment and you’ll get a free, customized improvement plan to shape and grow the 6 parts of any strong mathematics program.

Take the assessment

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.

Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: https://makemathmoments.com/grow/ 

Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com 

Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units

As an instructional math coach, walking into a classroom means balancing observation with intentional support. But what happens when a teacher is in the early stages of implementing an effective practice? In this episode, we explore how to apply the 5 Practices for Orchestrating Productive Mathematics Discussions to plan meaningful coaching moves. We'll dive into the power of assessing and advancing questions—both for guiding student learning and for fostering rich coaching conversations. How can we anticipate the questions that will move a teacher forward? Let’s practice together and refine our approach to coaching with purpose.

Key discussion points include:

• How to enter a classroom with a clear focus on an effective teaching practice.
• How to prepare questions in advance to guide reflection and next steps.
• Real-world examples of assessing and advancing questions in action.
• How thoughtful questioning supports gradual implementation and teacher growth.

Rather than pushing against resistance, this approach amplifies successful implementation.

Show Notes

Love the show? Text us your big takeaway!

Get a Customized Math Improvement Plan For Your District.

Are you district leader for mathematics? Take the 12 minute assessment and you’ll get a free, customized improvement plan to shape and grow the 6 parts of any strong mathematics program.

Take the assessment

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.

Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: https://makemathmoments.com/grow/ 

Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com 

Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units

This episode explores the concept of “expired math rules or math tricks”—rules, tricks, and shortcuts commonly taught in early mathematics that become problematic as students advance in their learning. Based on the article 13 Rules That Expire by Karen S. Karp, Sarah B. Bush, and Barbara J. Dougherty, the discussion highlights how overgeneralizing strategies, using imprecise vocabulary, and relying on procedural tricks can lead to misconceptions. The conversation emphasizes the importance of fostering deep mathematical understanding rather than rote memorization of rules that don’t hold true in all contexts.

Key Takeaways:

1. Many tricks (e.g., “you can’t subtract a bigger number from a smaller one”) work in early math but break down with more advanced concepts like negative numbers.
2. Teaching why math works builds deeper understanding and helps students apply knowledge flexibly, rather than relying on rules that later fail.
3. Imprecise wording (e.g., "always move the decimal when dividing") can cause confusion when students encounter different representations of numbers.
4. Encouraging reasoning and sense-making allows students to adapt their thinking to new problems, rather than getting stuck when a memorized rule no longer applies.
5. By recognizing these expired rules, educators can modify instruction to prioritize reasoning and problem-solving over rote tricks.

Show Notes

Love the show? Text us your big takeaway!

Get a Customized Math Improvement Plan For Your District.

Are you district leader for mathematics? Take the 12 minute assessment and you’ll get a free, customized improvement plan to shape and grow the 6 parts of any strong mathematics program.

Take the assessment

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.

Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: https://makemathmoments.com/grow/ 

Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com 

Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units

Many math leaders face a common challenge: after delivering PD and putting support in place, only a small percentage of teachers adopt the new teaching practice or resource. This episode explores a shift in Math PD approach—focusing on the teachers who are making changes to create compound growth across the system.

By leveraging an adoption model rooted in exponential growth, districts can create momentum for sustained instructional math improvement. 

Key discussion points include:

• Establish a shared vision for effective math instruction
• Create showcase classrooms to highlight quality teaching practices
• Support teachers through shoulder-to-shoulder coaching
• Build a sustainable system that scales change district-wide

Rather than pushing against resistance, this approach amplifies successful implementation, empowering teachers as leaders and accelerating instructional transformation.

Show Notes

Love the show? Text us your big takeaway!

Get a Customized Math Improvement Plan For Your District.

Are you district leader for mathematics? Take the 12 minute assessment and you’ll get a free, customized improvement plan to shape and grow the 6 parts of any strong mathematics program.

Take the assessment

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.

Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units

Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: https://makemathmoments.com/grow/ 

Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com 

Building Thinking Classrooms is praised for promoting engagement and rich discourse, but is there such a thing as too much BTC? In this episode, we explore both the benefits and the potential pitfalls—yes, students are talking more, but are they thinking more? We discuss concerns like over-reliance on group work, the risk of passive participation, and how easy it can be for students to copy rather than truly engage. Join us as we unpack the nuances of this approach and consider how to find the right balance for your classroom.

Key discussion points include:

• Building Thinking Classrooms fosters engagement, collaboration, and deep mathematical discourse, making it a powerful approach worth considering.
• Too much emphasis on group work can lead to passive participation, uneven contribution, and students copying rather than thinking.
• Learn how to implement BTC strategically—balancing structure with flexibility to ensure all students are thinking, not just talking.
• Explore ways to integrate BTC effectively without losing sight of individual accountability, diverse learning needs, and varied instructional approaches.

Show Notes

Love the show? Text us your big takeaway!

Get a Customized Math Improvement Plan For Your District.

Are you district leader for mathematics? Take the 12 minute assessment and you’ll get a free, customized improvement plan to shape and grow the 6 parts of any strong mathematics program.

Take the assessment

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.