5+ day, 16+ hour ago  (308+ words) Many students see the equal sign as a signal to calculate, rather than a symbol of equivalence. Here’s how to clear up that misunderstanding. I use the lens of mathematical hygiene to layer my classes with habits and routines that…...

3+ week, 4+ day ago  (215+ words) Exploring concepts such as observation and measurement in the fresh air can give students a new and playful perspective on math. Stepping outside can offer students a fresh perspective on mathematical thinking. The school grounds and other outdoor spaces can…...

1+ mon, 1+ week ago  (769+ words) Teachers can help ease the anxiety that many students feel with these strategies for creating joyful learning experiences. You introduce a math problem, and before anyone begins, a few students already look defeated. Some avoid eye contact. Others quietly insist…...

1+ mon, 3+ week ago  (552+ words) With a few instructional shifts, teachers can create classrooms that better encourage confidence and academic growth. Neurodivergent students are learners whose cognitive functioning differs from what is considered “neurotypical.” This includes students with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, dyslexia, dyscalculia, and…...

2+ mon, 3+ week ago  (452+ words) A worksheet is like off-the-rack formal wear—it might be OK, but it needs a little tailoring to really fit your students and your learning objective. Whether I hop right up in the morning or sluggishly drag myself out of…...

2+ mon, 4+ week ago  (285+ words) Teachers can use these questions to draw students out and get worthwhile formative assessment responses to guide instruction. I realized that if I wanted better student responses, I needed better questions. Over time, I have found four effective questions that…...

3+ mon, 5+ day ago  (685+ words) Both veteran and early-career educators can openly share their expertise to make teaching more effective and sustainable. For decades, the architectural and social structure of the American school has been described as an “egg carton.” Each teacher exists in their…...

3+ mon, 3+ week ago  (761+ words) Students actively engage in tasks that are doable and interesting—which frees up time for personalized instruction. It’s 12:30 in my second-grade classroom, and I tell my students it’s time for math centers. Believe it or not, that statement is met…...

4+ mon, 6+ day ago  (518+ words) Math vocabulary alone isn’t a silver bullet—but research shows it’s linked to stronger academic achievement when paired with expert teaching practices. Picture two different fourth-grade classrooms. In one room, the teacher asks, “How many times does 6 go into 45?” and…...

4+ mon, 2+ week ago  (276+ words) Teachers can use these routines to seamlessly integrate SEL into math instruction to boost students’ proficiency and encourage a positive math identity. Let’s say the quiet part aloud: Millions of students believe they are not “math worthy.” Too often, students…...