Why do students earn A’s in math… yet still struggle to pass state tests?
 In today’s episode of Tier 1 Interventions, Cheri Dotterer and Jonily Zupancic uncover the hidden truth behind traditional grading: grades measure compliance—NOT mastery.

You’ll learn why “good students” often carry the deepest learning gaps, how traditional grading systems mislead parents and teachers, and what REAL mastery looks like inside a math classroom.

✔ Why A’s don’t equal mastery
 ✔ Why compliant students still have conceptual gaps
 ✔ How nonlinear instruction strengthens the math brain
 ✔ Why multitasking is a myth (and what switch-tasking really is)
 ✔ How to redesign math learning around true understanding
 ✔ The 3 visual anchors that transform math thinking: Lockers, Rectangles & Pizzas

If you’re a teacher, homeschool parent, interventionist, or administrator who wants students to actually understand math—not just earn grades—this episode is essential.

 Drop your favorite math jingles in the comments.

👉 Want to experience the full workshop?
 You can sign up to experience one workshop for just $47. The link is here.

https://disabilitylabs.com/live-webinar/mastery-math-method-dec2025/register

⏱️ Chapters

00:00 – Welcome + Why This Episode Matters

00:37 – Nonlinear Teaching & The 12 Song Story

01:33 – Why Traditional Learning Fails Many Students

02:27 – Multitasking vs. Switch-Tasking

03:58 – Nonlinear Thinking in Math Instruction

05:53 – When “Good” Students Struggle Most

06:45 – The Parent Question That Exposed the Problem

08:12 – Straight A’s but Failing State Tests

09:40 – Why Grades Don’t Measure Mastery

11:00 – Teachers Sound Off on Grading Scales

12:30 – Compliance vs. Understanding

13:18 – Why We Need Mastery-Based Grading

14:05 – Humor, Memory & Celine Dion

15:10 – Type A vs. Type Z Teachers

16:40 – What Needs to Change in Math Education

17:00 – Closing + Next Week’s Teaser

🎯 Ready to Change Math Outcomes in 10 Days?

👉 Join our FREE Masterclass for school leaders, teachers, and OTs:
 https://disabilitylabs.com/calendar

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🔗 Stay Connected

🌐 Website: https://disabilitylabs.com/courses/mastery-math-bundle
📧 Disability Labs Community: https://disabilitylabs.com/community/3d-learning-lounge-1

🎙️ Credits:
Host: Cheri Dotterer
Co-Host: Jonily Zupancic
Production: Disability Labs Podcast Network

🧠 Resources Mentioned:

Mastery Math Method Level One (Lifetime Access): https://disabilitylabs.com/courses/mastery-math-bundle
Mastery Math Method Level Two (Annual Subscription): https://disabilitylabs.com/courses/mastery-math-method-group-coaching

⚠️ Disclaimer: The content shared in this video is for educational purposes only and does not replace your district’s policies or individualized education plans. Always consult with your instructional team before implementing new strategies.

🏷️ Hashtags

#MathIsMessy #Tier1Interventions #MasteryMathMethod #BrainBasedLearning #REWIREMethod #OTinSchools #TeacherMindset