Before You Teach Math, Build Belonging

Before students are willing to share their thinking, take risks, make mistakes, persevere through a challenging problem, or disagree with a classmate's strategy, they need to believe one thing:

I belong here.

That's why building a Community of Problem Solvers starts with belonging.

In this episode, we're talking about how to intentionally build belonging from the very beginning of the school year, not as something separate from mathematics, but through the way students experience mathematics in your classroom.

Because belonging isn't just about making students feel welcome.

It's about creating a mathematical community where every student believes their ideas matter, their thinking has value, and they are capable of doing mathematics.

Math Survey [download here]

FREE First Week Math Plans [download here]

The plans will help you intentionally build relationships, establish norms and routines, and get students thinking, solving, and talking about mathematics from the very beginning.

Download your free First Week Math Plans using the link below and start building your Community of Problem Solvers from day one.

Belonging isn't something we build before mathematics. We build it through mathematics.

What if some of the chaos in your classroom isn't actually a behavior problem?

What if it's a routine problem?

In this episode, we're talking about one of the simplest ways to create a calmer, more confident, and more independent classroom: intentionally teaching and practicing routines.

Because routines aren't just about getting students to line up quietly or put their manipulatives away.

Great routines remove unnecessary decision making so students can focus their energy on what actually matters: learning.

And in the math classroom, routines can do even more.

When students know how to begin a problem, share their thinking, work with a partner, use materials, discuss strategies, and reflect on their learning, they spend less time trying to figure out what they're supposed to do and more time actually thinking about mathematics.

In this episode, we'll talk about:

• Why classroom chaos is often a signal that a routine needs to be taught or strengthened

• How routines create confidence, independence, and ownership

• Why routines need to be modeled, practiced, reflected on, and practiced again

• How Thinking Routines help students focus on how they're thinking rather than what the teacher wants them to do

• Why the predictable structure of Word Problem Workshop allows the routine to fade into the background so mathematical thinking can take center stage

• How to identify the places in your classroom where a stronger routine could make everything feel easier

Resources Mentioned:

Thinking Routines Collection: monamath.com/thinking-routines

 Routines and Procedures Resource: Grab them Here 

First Week of Word Problem Workshop: K-2 Resource,  3-5 Resource 

Every classroom has norms, but they might not be the ones hanging on your wall.

In this episode we're chatting about why most math classroom norms fail... Asking ourselves, are the "norms" reflected in students' daily experiences? 

If we want to build a true community of problem solvers, we have to stop focusing on what our norms say and start focusing on what students actually experience every day.

In this episode, we'll chat about:

• Why classroom experiences always outweigh classroom posters
• The difference between correcting student thinking and understanding it first
• How to hold students accountable without using shame
• Why most classroom reflection falls flat and what meaningful reflection actually looks like
• How relationships are built through everyday interactions, not one-time activities
• The simple question that reveals your classroom's real norms

Whether you're planning for the first week of school or rethinking your classroom culture, this episode will challenge you to build norms you're truly willing to defend with your decisions.

Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

📘 Word Problem Workshop: 5 Steps to Creating a Classroom of Problem Solvers
https://monamath.com/book

🎁 Free First Week of School Math Plans
https://monamath.com/firstweek

Want to keep learning about math classroom norms here are a few of previous episodes on Math Norms, how to form them, and get your school on board! 

🎧 Episode 12: Math Classroom Norms That Actually Matter
https://monamath.com/podcast/12/

📝 Blog: Math Classroom Norms That Build a Community of Problem Solvers
https://monamath.com/math-norms/

🎧 Episode 122: Rethinking Math Classroom Norms
https://monamath.com/podcast/122/

Build Belonging in Your Math Classroom 

Do all your students feel like they belong in math class? 

In this episode of Math Chat, we're wrapping up the Creating a Community of Problem Solvers series by exploring the foundation that holds every other instructional practice together: belonging.

You'll hear why students can't become confident problem solvers until they know their ideas matter, how each part of your math block can strengthen (or weaken) classroom community, and practical ways to create a math classroom where every child feels safe to think, share, struggle, and grow.

In this episode, we'll discuss:

• Why belonging is the foundation of student engagement and mathematical identity.
• How Thinking Routines, Word Problem Workshop, Purposeful Fluency, Strategic Instruction, and Student-Engaged Assessment all build belonging.
• Simple mindset shifts that help every student see themselves as a valued mathematician.
• A free first-week lesson plan to help you intentionally build a community of problem solvers from day one. MonaMath.com/FirstWeek 

🎁 Grab your free First Week of School Math Plans: monamath.com/firstweek

📚 Book Mentioned: Power Up Your Math Community by Holly Burwell & Sue Chapman (Grab your Copy on Amazon Here) 

Don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss next week's episode, where we'll dive into one of the most overlooked ways to build belonging in math class: creating classroom norms together.

Assessment shouldn't be something we do to students. It should be something we do with them.

In this episode of the Math Chat Podcast, we're continuing our Creating a Classroom of Problem Solvers series by exploring the fifth strand of the framework: Student-Engaged Assessment.

Too often, assessment data stays in teacher binders, spreadsheets, and data meetings. But what if we invited students into the process? When students understand the learning goal, reflect on their progress, and use feedback to determine their next steps, assessment becomes a powerful tool for learning, not just grading.

In this episode, we'll chat about:

• Three simple ways to begin engaging students in the assessment process
• Why this is a strand to weave in thoughtfully as your classroom community grows

Mentioned in this episode:

• Word Problem Workshop: 5 Steps to Creating a Classroom of Problem Solvers (Reflect Chapter)
• Leaders of Their Own Learning by Ron Berger, Leah Rugen, and Libby Woodfin

This is Part 5 of the Creating a Classroom of Problem Solvers summer series. Next week, we'll wrap up the series by exploring the strand that ties everything together: Belonging & Identity.

If this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a teacher friend who is building a classroom where every student thinks, solves, and grows.

When do you actually teach in a student-centered math classroom?

Teacher friend... if you've ever wondered that, you're not alone.

In Part 4 of the Creating a Classroom of Problem Solvers series, we're talking all about Strategic Instruction—the teaching moves that happen because of what your students show you.

We'll unpack why student-centered instruction absolutely includes direct instruction... just not the way many of us were taught. Instead of teaching what's next because the curriculum says so, you'll learn how to notice student thinking, decide what matters most, and teach with purpose.

In this episode, we'll chat about:

• Why strategic instruction is a response, not a lesson
• How to use student thinking to guide your next teaching move
• Where direct instruction fits in a classroom of problem solvers
• A simple framework for making your teaching more intentional

Because here's the truth...

The best lessons don't always start with your lesson plan.

They start with what your students show you. 

📘 Learn more about Word Problem Workshop:
https://monamath.com/wordproblemworkshop

📚 Get the book, Word Problem Workshop: 5 Steps to Creating a Classroom of Problem Solvers Get it here using code WORKSHOP25 for 25% off & free shipping 

🎧 Listen to more Math Chat Podcast episodes:
https://monamath.com/podcast

📩 Free teacher resources:
https://monamath.com/5questions

Follow along for more elementary math teaching ideas:
Instagram: @hellomonamath

What if math fluency wasn't about speed... but about thinking?

In this episode of the Math Chat Podcast, we're rethinking what it means to build mathematical fluency in elementary classrooms. Instead of timed tests and memorization, discover how purposeful fluency helps students develop flexible strategies, notice patterns, explain their reasoning, and build lasting mathematical understanding.

You'll learn practical math fluency activities that promote reasoning, discussion, and confidence, including:

• Number Strings
• True or False?
• Which One Doesn't Belong?
• Choral Counting
• Counting Collections
• Low-prep math games that build strategy and flexibility

If you want to create a classroom where students think, solve, talk, and make sense of mathematics every day, this episode is for you.

📘 Learn more about Word Problem Workshop:
https://monamath.com/wordproblemworkshop

📚 Get the book, Word Problem Workshop: 5 Steps to Creating a Classroom of Problem Solvers Get it here using code WORKSHOP25 for 25% off & free shipping 

🎧 Listen to more Math Chat Podcast episodes:
https://monamath.com/podcast

📩 Free teacher resources:
https://monamath.com/5questions

Follow along for more elementary math teaching ideas:
Instagram: @hellomonamath

Before students can confidently solve problems, they need opportunities to confidently share ideas.

We're continuing our Creating a Classroom of Problem Solvers series by exploring one of my favorite places to start: Thinking Routines.

These routines create low-pressure opportunities for students to notice patterns, share ideas, compare strategies, justify their thinking, and build confidence as mathematicians.

We'll discuss why thinking routines matter, how they support mathematical identity, and why they're such a powerful companion to Word Problem Workshop and problem-solving classrooms.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• How these routines build confidence and engagement
• Several favorite routines to try in your classroom
• The biggest mistake teachers make when facilitating thinking routines
• How thinking routines support discourse and problem solving

Resources Mentioned:

Free Thinking Routine Sample:
https://monamath.myflodesk.com/thinkingroutines

Christopher Danielson's How Many? books:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1032898356

Let's Connect! 

Website: MonaMath.com
Instagram: @hellomonamath

Listen on YouTube https://youtu.be/D1Xa3fgZ8fM 

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a teacher friend who is working to create a classroom of problem solvers.

Creating a classroom of problem solvers can feel overwhelming when you're trying to fit problem solving, fluency, discourse, assessment, intervention, and curriculum pacing into a single math block.

In this episode we're unpacking the six essential elements that help students become confident, capable mathematicians and how these elements work together to create a classroom where students do the thinking, talking, and problem solving.

Inspired by the research in Adding It Up: Helping Children Learn Mathematics, we'll explore why mathematical proficiency is about so much more than getting the right answer and how small shifts in instruction can help students develop deeper understanding, stronger reasoning, and greater independence.

In this episode, we're chatting about: 

• How thinking routines build reasoning, discourse, and fluency
• Where intervention, small groups, and strategic instruction fit
• What purposeful fluency really means
• How student-engaged assessment supports learning and growth
• Why identity and belonging are essential for mathematical success
• How to fit it all together without adding more to your day

Whether you're implementing Word Problem Workshop, exploring student-centered math instruction, or simply looking for ways to increase student thinking and engagement, this episode will help you reimagine what your math block can be.

Resources Mentioned:

📘 Word Problem Workshop: 5 Steps to Creating a Classroom of Problem Solvers https://amzn.to/4enq6bD 

📚 Adding It Up: Helping Children Learn Mathematics https://amzn.to/4vLN1o3 

🌎 monamath.com/ 

📲 Instagram: @hellomonamath

If you're enjoying the Math Chat Podcast, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a teacher friend who wants students doing more of the thinking in math class.

Find Math Chat Podcast on YOUTUBE! 

What if the most important thing you teach at the beginning of the year isn’t a routine… but a belief about what math actually IS?

In this episode of the Math Chat Podcast, we’re talking about how to launch the school year with a true problem-solving mindset so students learn to think, persevere, discuss ideas, and trust themselves as mathematicians from day one.

Because students learn what math is by experiencing math.

If math is always watching, copying, and repeating, students learn math is about compliance. But when math becomes noticing, wondering, trying, discussing, revising, and making sense of ideas… students learn math is about thinking. And teacher friends… that changes everything.

In this episode, we’ll chat about:

•  the biggest mindset mistake teachers make at the beginning of the year 
•  how over-scaffolding can accidentally reduce student independence 
•  what students actually need to become problem solvers 
•  ways to normalize productive struggle in math class 
•  what classrooms full of thinkers really look and sound like 
•  practical shifts that help students build confidence, reasoning, and perseverance from the very beginning 

Mentioned in this episode

👩🏼‍🏫 Word Problem Workshop Teacher Training

🆓 5 Questions to Ask in Math Class to Get Students Thinking

📒 The BOOK! Word Problem Workshop: 5 Steps to Creating a Classroom of Problem Solvers 

📱 @hellomonamath on Instagram

A few favorite reminders from this episode:

•  “Students become problem solvers by solving problems. Not by watching us solve them.” 
•  “We have to stop treating struggle like an emergency.” 
•  “Your job is not to perform the math. Your job is to facilitate the thinking.” 
•  “Students learn what math is by experiencing math.” 

If you’re enjoying the Math Chat Podcast, leaving a quick review helps more teachers discover the show and build classrooms full of thinkers too.

What if before planning next year… you actually took time to recognize how much growth happened THIS year?

In this episode of the Math Chat Podcast, we’re talking about meaningful end-of-year reflection for math teachers, how to recognize the shifts that happened in your classroom, and why reflection is one of the most important parts of learning.

Before we jump into planning next year, new classroom supplies, fresh routines, and all the “what should I change?” thoughts, I want to encourage you to pause and really look at the growth that happened this year… for your students AND for yourself.

Because reflection is what helps us make meaning from the experience.

And teacher friends… this episode is also a reminder that the work you did this year mattered deeply.

In this episode, we’ll chat about:

•  why reflection is one of the most important parts of learning 
•  the 5 reflection “buckets” I use at the end of the school year 
•  how to think about student confidence, discourse, engagement, and perseverance 
•  questions to help you process your instructional growth 
•  why reflecting on community and relationships matters just as much as academics 
•  a simple back-book activity your students will NEVER forget 

Mentioned in this episode:

📘 Word Problem Workshop Book Club

🎧 Math Chat Podcast Episode 212 Reflection Questions

📱 @hellomonamath on Instagram

📖 Word Problem Workshop Book Information

A few favorite reminders from this episode:

•  “We do not learn from experience… we learn from reflecting on experience.” 
•  “Reflection helps us see the ripples our actions created.” 
•  “Students don’t just remember what they learned. They remember how they felt in your classroom.” 
•  “The community was built through your strategic moves, your caring, your respect, and your hard work.” 

If you’re enjoying the Math Chat Podcast, leaving a quick review helps more teachers discover the show and build classrooms full of thinkers too.

Turn and talk is one of the most common strategies in math classrooms—but most teachers aren’t using it in a way that actually builds student thinking.

In this episode, (part 4 of the Math Discussion Makeover Series) we break down how to use turn and talk intentionally to unlock deeper thinking, increase engagement, and strengthen math discussions.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why turn and talk doesn’t always lead to real thinking
• The role of rehearsal in helping students explain their thinking
• What to listen for during turn and talk to understand student thinking
• How to shift from explaining to facilitating math discussions

📒 Get a copy of Mona's Book: Word Problem Workshop: 5 Steps to Create a Classroom of Problem Solvers 

🤨 Free Resource

Want to get students thinking more deeply in math?

Download: 5 Questions to Ask in Math Class to Get Students Thinking
 👉 monamath.com/5questions

🚸Work With Me

Looking to strengthen math instruction and student engagement across your school or district?

I offer professional development and coaching for K–8 teachers and instructional leaders. Learn more at: monamath.com/leader

What if your math questioning strategies are actually limiting student thinking?
 In this episode, we unpack why many “open-ended” math questions are really closed in disguise—and how a few simple shifts in your math questioning strategies can unlock deeper thinking and stronger math discussions.

After this episode you'll know... 

•  How common math questioning strategies can unintentionally stop student thinking
•  The difference between true open-ended questions and closed questions in disguise
•  How to use “notice and wonder” as a powerful math questioning strategy
•  How rehearsal and turn-and-talk support stronger participation and thinking
•  What to listen for to better understand what your students know

📒 Grab your copy of the book!! (Amazon link here)

 
Want to strengthen your math questioning strategies and get students thinking more deeply?
FREE Download: 5 Questions to Ask in Math Class to Get Students Thinking
monamath.com/5questions

Work With Me
Looking to improve math questioning strategies, instruction, and student engagement across your school or district?
I offer professional development and coaching for K–8 teachers and instructional leaders.
🚸 Learn more at monamath.com

What if one of the most common teaching habits is actually training students not to listen?

In this episode, we unpack why repeating students during math discussions can quietly kill engagement and what to do instead to build stronger, more meaningful math conversations.

What You’ll Learn

• Why repeating students reduces student-to-student listening
• The hidden reason students disengage during math share time
• How to use revoicing to shift responsibility back to students
• Simple ways to increase engagement during math discussions
• What it really means to facilitate thinking instead of leading it

📒 Grab your copy of the BOOK: Word Problem Workshop: 5 Steps to Creating a Classroom of Problem Solvers! (on Amazon here) 

Want to get students thinking more deeply in math?

FREE Download: 5 Questions to Ask in Math Class to Get Students Thinking
📝 monamath.com/5questions

Looking to improve math instruction and student engagement across your school or district?

I offer professional development and coaching for K–8 teachers and instructional leaders. 🚸 Learn more at monamath.com/leaders

If your math share time feels disengaged, the issue might not be your students… it might be the structure. In this episode, we unpack how one common routine is quietly reducing student engagement and what simple shift can help students listen, think, and fully participate in math discussions.

What You’ll Learn:
Why bringing student work to the carpet can actually lower student engagement
What the true purpose of the share is in building student thinking and engagement
How this routine unintentionally excludes students who need engagement the most
A simple shift to increase listening, thinking, and participation
How removing distractions improves focus and student engagement during discussions

In This Episode

•  The moment student engagement drops during share time
•  The routine that feels right (but hurts engagement)
•  What students are actually doing instead of listening
•  Reframing the purpose of the share for engagement
•  The students we unintentionally leave out
•  The shift that increases student engagement immediately
•  Protecting attention to build real math discussions

Free Resource
Want to increase student engagement and get students thinking more deeply in math?
⬇️ Download: 5 Questions to Ask in Math Class to Get Students Thinking
monamath.com/5questions

Work With Me
Looking to improve student engagement and math instruction across your school or district?
I offer professional development and coaching for K–8 teachers and instructional leaders.
🚸 Learn more at monamath.com/leaders

Have you ever found yourself walking around during grapple time unsure of where to go or what to say? This episode taps into that exact moment—when students are at different stages and the instinct is to jump in and fix everything. You’ll discover why the real power of grapple time isn’t in giving answers, but in how you respond to student thinking in math.

Most teachers were trained to look for correct answers, not to analyze thinking. During grapple time, that leads to scanning for who’s right or wrong instead of understanding how students are reasoning. This episode reframes effective math teaching by showing that grapple time isn’t about struggle—it’s about uncovering and using student thinking intentionally.

🎧 Ready to Transform Your Grapple Time?

If this episode got you thinking:

👉 Listen to the full episode for real classroom examples and practical strategies
👉 Subscribe for more actionable math instruction insights
👉 Leave a review to support other educators on this journey

📥 Take Action Today:
Try just ONE move in your classroom tomorrow—or reflect on which move you tend to skip.

📘 Want to go deeper? Order the Book HERE!
Explore the book designed to help you build a classroom where student thinking drives instruction and math becomes a true language of understanding.

Because when you shift how you respond during grapple time…
 you don’t just manage the moment—you transform learning.

You’ve likely felt this before—leaving a PD inspired, only to return to the same classroom routines the next day. This episode opens with an honest question: if we know what works in math instruction, why aren’t we seeing real change? The answer isn’t more effort—it’s creating the structure and support needed to make math a language of power in every classroom.

We’ve explored the problem and what’s possible—now it’s time to make it actionable. This section bridges theory to practice, emphasizing that meaningful change doesn’t require starting over or adding more. Instead, it’s about implementing a simple, predictable math classroom routine that transforms daily student engagement. 

🎧 Ready to Take the First Step?

If this episode resonated with you:

👉 Listen to the full episode to see what this shift looks like in action
👉 Subscribe for more insights on transforming math instruction
👉 Leave a review to help other educators find this work

📩 Interested in partnering? Reach out directly: mona@monamath.com

Because real change doesn’t come from doing more—
 it comes from building the structure that makes better outcomes possible.

In recent conversations, we’ve unpacked a common frustration: math instruction isn’t always producing the confident problem solvers we hope for. But what if the issue isn’t effort or ability—what if it’s structure? This episode opens the door to what’s possible when a school shifts how students experience math as a language of power.

Here’s the surprising part: nothing new was added—no new curriculum, no extra workload. Instead, the focus was on implementing a consistent, predictable math classroom routine where students think, solve, and talk every day. This small but powerful shift began to unlock deeper engagement and ownership in problem solving in math.

🎧 Ready to Rethink Math Instruction?

If this episode sparked new ideas for your classroom or school:

👉 Listen to the full episode to hear the complete story and practical insights
👉 Subscribe for more strategies on building confident math learners
👉 Leave a review to help other educators discover this work

Because when students actively engage…
 math truly becomes a language of power they can use.

What if the reason students struggle with math problem solving has nothing to do with effort, curriculum, or ability? In this opening, we challenge a common assumption and reveal a powerful truth: the structure of math classrooms is often what holds students back from building confidence. This shift in perspective sets the stage for transforming how we think about teaching math as a language of power. 

Step into a real classroom scenario where a single moment exposes a deeper issue—students equating math success with speed rather than understanding. Watch how one student’s quick answer unintentionally shuts down others, revealing how traditional routines can quietly erode confidence. This story will resonate with any educator who has seen students disengage during problem solving.

🎧 Ready to Transform Your Math Classroom?

If this episode resonated with you, it’s time to take action.

👉 Listen to the full episode to dive deeper into these strategies
👉 Subscribe so you never miss an episode on building confident math learners
👉 Leave a review to help more educators discover this work

Because when students truly engage…math becomes a language of power they can actually use.

Have you ever walked out of professional development thinking, “That makes so much sense”… only to return to your classroom and teach the exact same way? You’re not alone—and this episode dives into the real reason why knowing better doesn’t always lead to doing better in your math classroom.

Here’s the reality: teachers don’t struggle because they lack knowledge—they struggle because change requires action before confidence. In math education, that gap between knowing and doing is where classrooms stay stuck, even when teachers deeply believe in student-centered learning. 

🔗 Links Mentioned in Episode: 

📘 The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins

🎧 Ready to Take the First Step?

If this episode resonated with you, it’s time to turn reflection into action.

• 🎧 Listen to the full episode of Math Chat
• ⭐ Subscribe so you never miss a new conversation on math instruction and mindset
• 💬 Leave a review to help more teachers find this message

📥 Free Resource: Start small with my 5 favorite math questions to spark student thinking:
👉 MonaMath.com/5questions

Because real change doesn’t start with doing everything differently.
 It starts with one decision:
 Let them… and let me.

Right now, gamified math platforms are everywhere—and yes, they can feel like a lifesaver. Students are engaged, they’re excited, and for a moment, it feels like learning is happening seamlessly through technology in math classrooms. However, this episode invites you to pause and consider what these tools are actually teaching students about math.

At first glance, math games seem to promote engagement. But in reality, many students are focused on speed, rewards, and getting back to the game—not on understanding the math. As a result, math learning can quickly become about getting the right answer fast, rather than making sense of the problem.

🎧 Ready to Rethink Math in Your Classroom?

If this episode challenged your thinking about gamified math, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself.

• 🎧 Listen to the full episode of Math Chat
• ⭐ Subscribe and leave a review to support the podcast
• 📥 Grab the Word Problem Workshop book or explore the teacher training at MonaMath.com/wpw-teacher-training

As you reflect, ask yourself:
 Where in your math block are students truly thinking… and where are they just answering?

Many teachers have experienced this exact moment. Students can add, subtract, and multiply during a lesson, but the moment they see a word problem, everything seems to unravel. In this episode, we explore why word problems in math often feel so challenging—even when students clearly know the computation.

One of the biggest shifts in teaching math word problems is understanding the difference between knowing procedures and making sense of a situation. Students may remember steps or operations, yet still struggle to interpret relationships between quantities in a story problem. This section reframes word problems as opportunities to reveal student thinking, not simply test whether they can follow a formula. 

🎧 Listen, Reflect, and Take the Next Step

If this conversation resonated with you, the full episode dives deeper into why word problems in math can reveal powerful insights about student thinking.

• 🎧 Listen to the full episode of Math Chat.
• ⭐ Subscribe and leave a review to help other educators discover the podcast.
• 📥 Download the Word Problem Workshop Teacher Training resources and explore the framework at monamath.com.

Reaching 200 episodes of the Math Chat is more than a milestone—it’s a movement. For two hundred conversations, we’ve challenged the idea that math is just memorizing steps and instead focused on building thinkers through meaningful math word problems and discussion. Most importantly, this episode reflects on what still matters most after years of listening, learning, and growing alongside educators like you.

The Belief Shift: Thinking Builds Test Success

After 200 episodes, one belief stands stronger than ever: thinking drives results. When students engage deeply with math word problems—modeling, explaining, and justifying their reasoning—they build lasting understanding and confidence. Consequently, math problem solving becomes a transferable skill that improves both test performance and lifelong learning.

🎧 Listen, Download, and Join the Next 200 Episodes

If this episode resonated with you, take the next step today.

• 🎁 Download the FREE March math word problems from Instagram.
• 🎧 Listen to the full episode to learn how to build thinkers through math problem solving.
• ⭐ Subscribe and leave a review to help more educators discover this work.

Most importantly, remember this: math classrooms don’t change through more worksheets—they change when students are given space to think.

Dr. Samuel Otten brings deep expertise and practical insight into helping teachers strengthen mathematical practices in math classrooms. With advanced degrees from Michigan State University and roots at Grand Valley State University, his journey reflects a lifelong commitment to improving math education. In this episode, you’ll discover how his research translates into actionable strategies teachers can use immediately.

This conversation offers clear, research-based strategies to strengthen mathematical practices and student participation. You’ll learn how to support deeper thinking, improve classroom discourse, and create sustainable instructional change. Most importantly, you’ll leave with practical ideas you can use right away. 

🎧 Listen, Subscribe, and Take the Next Step

If you’re ready to strengthen mathematical practices and transform your math classroom, this episode is for you. Listen now, subscribe to the podcast, and leave a review to help more educators discover these powerful strategies.

If sustainable change in math instruction were simply about trying harder, most teachers would already be there. In this episode, Mona names a truth many educators feel but rarely say out loud: lasting instructional change doesn’t come from more effort alone — it comes from meaningful support. This conversation offers clarity, validation, and a path forward for teachers, coaches, and leaders alike.

💰 When Budgets Are Tight, Support Still Matters

Not every school has funding for full-time instructional coaches — and this episode names that reality honestly. Still, limited budgets don’t mean educators should be left alone. Mona explains how sustainable change can still be supported through shared learning spaces, ongoing collaboration, and consistent connection over time.

🎧 Listen, Subscribe, and Keep Growing

If this episode resonated with you, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to figure this out by yourself.

👉 Listen to the full episode to explore what sustainable change really requires.
⭐ Subscribe to the podcast and leave a review to help more educators find these conversations.
📤 Share this episode with a colleague or leader who’s ready to move beyond effort and toward real support.

In this episode, we explore what happens when math instruction moves beyond answers and procedures and into interpretation, questioning, and meaning-making. This conversation invites educators to rethink how math prepares students not just for tests, but for a world shaped by numbers, data, and decisions.

At its core, this episode reminds us that teaching math is about more than content. It’s about helping students develop agency, critical awareness, and confidence in how they interpret the world. When students learn that math is a language of power, they begin to see themselves as capable of understanding — and shaping — the systems around them.

💬 Connect with Stephanie

• Instagram
• Email - Stephanie@algebramadesimple.com
• Workshops

🎧 Listen, Reflect, and Keep the Conversation Going

If this episode stretched your thinking or named something you’ve been carrying, take a moment to sit with it.

👉 Listen to the full episode to explore what it means to teach math as a language of power.
⭐ Subscribe to the podcast and leave a review to help more educators find these conversations.
📤 Share this episode with a colleague who’s ready to help students think critically and see math differently.

Because you’re not just teaching math — you’re teaching students how to see the world. ❤️

When students were asked to solve independently, things quickly unraveled. Behaviors surfaced, lessons derailed, and reliance on the teacher increased. This wasn’t a lack of effort — it was a lack of confidence, a common barrier in developing effective math problem solvers.

After the lesson ended, one question lingered: Do they actually understand the math? Students had learned how to watch and copy, not how to reason. This realization exposed the disconnect between effort and outcome and highlighted what was missing in math problem solving instruction.

🎧 Listen, Reflect, and Take the Next Step

If this classroom moment feels familiar, this episode is for you.

👉 Listen to Episode 196 to hear how one moment reshaped math problem solving instruction.
⭐ Subscribe to the podcast and leave a review to help other educators find these conversations.
📣 Share this episode with a colleague who’s working to build confident, capable math problem solvers.

Because strong math problem solving starts when students are given space to think. 💛

What if math classrooms were places where every child saw themselves as capable, curious, and confident? In this episode, we’re joined by Deborah Peart Crayton, founder and Queen Mather of My Mathematical Mind, to explore what it truly means to become a Mather. Together, we unpack how joyful learning, strong identity, and intentional instruction can transform how students experience math.

💬 Connect with Deborah 

• Website: https://www.mathersgonnamath.com/
• 📘 Order her Book - Readers Read. Writers Write. Mathers Math!  
• LinkedIn

🎧 Listen, Learn, and Join the Mather Movement

Ready to rethink what’s possible in your math classroom?

👉 Listen to the full episode to hear Deborah Peart Crayton share her insights on identity, joy, and becoming a Mather.
⭐ Subscribe to the podcast and leave a review to help other educators discover this conversation.
📢 Share this episode with a colleague who’s passionate about building confident, joyful Mathers in every classroom.

What happens when students haven’t been taught the math yet—but the task is right there waiting? In this episode, I unpack the fear many teachers feel before launching a rich task and explains why that hesitation, while understandable, often blocks the very learning we want. If you’ve ever wondered whether your students are “ready,” this conversation will gently shift how you think about readiness and learning.

When we trust students to begin with what they know, incredible learning unfolds. Thanks for showing up for kids—and for yourself—as a math teacher willing to grow.

🤍 Need Ongoing Math Support? Join the Support Circle

If you’re listening and thinking, “I want to do this well—but I don’t want to figure it out alone,” the Math Teacher Support Circle was created for you. Inside the Circle, you get ongoing math support, coaching, and a community of teachers all implementing Word Problem Workshop and rich problem-solving routines together. You’ll have a place to ask questions, get feedback, choose strong tasks, and build confidence—especially during Grapple—so supporting student thinking feels doable, not overwhelming.

🎧 Ready to Dive In?

👉 Listen to the full episode now
👉 Subscribe so you don’t miss future conversations
👉 Leave a review to help other teachers find this work

What if the biggest shift in your math block didn’t come from a new curriculum or tool—but from the questions you ask? In this episode, I explore how intentional math questions can spark deeper thinking, richer conversations, and stronger reasoning, all while requiring teachers to talk less. If you’ve ever felt the urge to jump in and explain, this conversation will feel both challenging and freeing.

You don’t need a new curriculum or a perfect lesson to transform math class. With meaningful questions, strategic silence, and a consistent routine like Word Problem Workshop, students begin to do the heavy cognitive lifting. This week’s challenge: ask one purposeful question—and then stop talking.

🎧 Ready to Listen?

If you want students to think more deeply and take ownership of their ideas, this episode is for you.

👉 Listen to the full episode now
👉 Subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode
👉 Leave a review to help other teachers find this work

What should students actually be doing, saying, and thinking in math class? In this episode, I break down this essential question and shifts the focus away from pacing guides, tests, and compliance—and back to student thinking. If you want math class to feel alive, engaging, and meaningful, this conversation sets the stage.

So how do we make this happen consistently? The answer isn’t more strategies or better worksheets—it’s a routine. This segment breaks down how Word Problem Workshop provides a predictable structure (Launch, Grapple, Share, Discuss, Reflect) that reliably gets students doing, talking, and thinking about math without relying on scripted lessons or high-level curriculum materials.

📘 Don't have time to read a book?? Join the Support Circle! 

🎧 Ready to Listen?

If you’re ready to build a math classroom where student thinking takes center stage, this episode is for you.

👉 Listen to the full episode now
👉 Subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode
👉 Leave a review to help other educators find this work

Today’s episode dives into a question many K–1 teachers ask: Why are we giving multiplication problem types when they’re nowhere in the standards? If you’ve ever wondered whether this is developmentally appropriate, too advanced, or simply “off track,” you’re definitely not alone.

But here’s the truth: young children already experience multiplicative situations in real life — and those experiences naturally support early additive reasoning. In this episode, I share a powerful story from Kayla’s first-grade classroom that illustrates exactly why these problem types matter.

🎧 CTA — Listen, Subscribe, Review & Download

If this episode sparked ideas or affirmed your instincts, make sure to listen to the full conversation, subscribe to the podcast, and leave a review to help more teachers find it.

In today’s episode, we’re diving into what really happens when kids struggle—and how to support them without rescuing them from the thinking process. You’ll hear the story of a quiet 3rd grader named Daria and how confidence, belief, and intentional instruction changed her entire trajectory.

Many teachers have taught a student like Daria—sweet, shy, unsure, and labeled “below grade level.” Yet, through connection and curiosity, her brilliance surfaced long before her academic data did. This teaser shows why confidence isn’t everything, but why it’s a powerful catalyst for learning.

🔗 Links Mentioned in This Episode:

📘 Word Problem Workshop

⭐️ Join the Book Club HERE

🎧 Ready to Dive In?

Listen to the full episode to hear the stories, strategies, and mindset shifts that help kids thrive—without taking away their thinking.

👉 Listen now
👉 Subscribe to the podcast
👉 Leave a review to help other educators find this work

I’ll start with a confession: I’ve never taught kindergarten. Honestly? I don’t think I could. Kindergarten teachers bring superhuman levels of compassion, patience, and organizational magic. They teach kids how to be at school while also supporting families.

Yet I support K–8 math, and as a parent of two kindergarteners, I know exactly what a Monday afternoon classroom feels like. So when a kindergarten teacher asked me to model what math could look, sound, and feel like with deeper engagement, I said yes. Today, you’ll hear the case study that proves Word Problem Workshop is the solution for low-level, boring curriculum tasks.

Here’s the encouragement I want to leave you with: you don’t need a new curriculum. You just need a routine that reveals student thinking. Word Problem Workshop does that — every single time. Even in kindergarten.

So try one step next week. Launch a real problem. Give space. Let kids think. And watch what happens.

🎧 Listen to the full episode, subscribe to the podcast, and leave a review to support more teachers bringing sense-making into math.

❄️ NEW: Join the Winter Break Book Club HERE

If you want a simple, supportive way to deepen your practice over break, join our Word Problem Workshop Winter Book Club. It’s cozy, low-pressure, and designed to refresh your teaching before January hits. You’ll get discussion prompts, coaching insights, and a community of educators who care deeply about student thinking.

Come as you are — pajama coffee, holiday chaos, and all.

💭 What “Let’s Just See What They Can Do” Really Means

This phrase isn’t about tossing students into a problem they can’t handle. It’s about honoring the strategies, intuitions, and lived math experiences they already bring. You’ll hear how the Grapple step in Word Problem Workshop allows students to make sense of the story without the teacher rescuing, modeling, or pre-teaching every step.

In this episode, you’ll hear a vivid classroom moment where a teacher doubted her students could handle:
 “There are 27 puppies. Eighteen are big. How many are small?”

Even with large numbers and no regrouping lesson yet, students entered the problem with drawings, cubes, equations, and revising strategies. You’ll see how every learner — regardless of level — found a way to show their thinking when given space to explore.

🎧 Tune In and Try It Yourself

Ready to try this mindset shift in your next lesson?
 Listen to the full episode to hear how Word Problem Workshop helps students think deeply, reason flexibly, and approach big problems with confidence.

➡️ Listen now, subscribe, and leave a review to support the podcast and help more teachers bring sense-making into their math classrooms.

Coaching often becomes hectic fast. Schedules shift, classrooms get noisy, and teachers feel stretched thin. While the instinct is to fix everything, coaching isn’t actually about fixing at all — it’s about refocusing on student thinking.

In this episode, Mona introduces the anchor moves she relies on when coaching feels chaotic. These moves bring clarity, calm, and purpose back into the work.

When coaching feels wild, return to the routine:
 Observe → Name → Nudge → Celebrate.

This is enough.
 You are enough.
 Your coaching makes a difference — especially now.

And if you want a space to practice these moves with community, we’re diving into them inside Math Coach Huddle on December 8. Bring your questions, your chaos, and your curiosity.

👉 Listen to the full episode
👉 Subscribe and leave a review to support the show
👉 Join Math Coach Huddle anytime at monamath.com/huddle

Hey teacher friends, Mona here! Today we’re diving into one of my favorite ways to grow as a team and strengthen math instruction across a school: Learning Walks. If you’ve never tried one before, don’t worry. By the end of this episode, you’ll know exactly what Learning Walks are, why they work, and how to use them to build collaboration, confidence, and shared vision among teachers.

And if you're a math coach, instructional leader, or team lead who’s been craving a more meaningful way to bring teachers together — this one is especially for you. Because inside Math Coach Huddle, Learning Walks are one of our most powerful community practices. They help us move from coaching alone… to coaching together.

Your challenge this week:
Invite one person into your classroom.
Or visit theirs.
Notice. Wonder. Reflect. Learn together.

Until next time — keep leading with curiosity, keep learning in community, and keep building joyful math spaces. 💛

Many classrooms use the CUBES strategy for solving word problems. It's familiar, structured, and gives students a clear process. However, in this episode, we explore how traditional CUBES may unintentionally encourage students to “hunt for clues” instead of understanding the meaning of the story. Let’s talk about how to shift from keywords to reasoning using the Word Problem Workshop approach.

In this episode, you’ll hear how we reimagine CUBES to shift students from identifying to understanding:

• C — Consider the Context: What’s the story about?
• U — Understand the Question: What is being asked?
• B — Bring Meaning to Numbers: What do the numbers represent?
• E — Examine the Situation: What is changing or happening?
• S — Support Understanding: Grapple and discuss before solving.

This small shift leads to huge gains in reasoning, confidence, and real problem-solving.

🎧 Listen + Subscribe

👉 Subscribe to the podcast
 ⭐ Leave a review to help more math educators find it

www.monamath.com/cubes

What does it really look like when students thrive in math? In this inspiring episode, Kendra unpacks what it means to build thriving math communities — classrooms where every child feels seen, confident, and ready to learn. She shares practical ideas and joyful starting points that any teacher can use to bring connection and purpose to math learning.

When students thrive in math, it’s not quiet — it’s alive. You’ll hear how thriving classrooms buzz with conversation, curiosity, and confidence. Kendra paints a picture of what it looks like when students feel safe to take risks, when math talk flows naturally, and when belonging fuels learning.

💬 Connect with Kendra

Website - https://www.mathematizing247.com/

Instagram

🔗 Tune In and Build Your Thriving Math Community

🎧 Listen to the full episode to hear Kendra share her journey and practical steps for creating classrooms where students feel confident, capable, and connected through math.

💬 Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with a colleague who’s ready to make math more joyful and inclusive.

How to Increase Student Confidence in Math without Changing Your Curriculum

May 7, 2026 at 11:30 Central - Zoom 

Sign up NOW - monamath.com/leaderworkshop

Think about this: how often do you hear a student say, “I can’t do this”?
You might wonder, why do they give up so easily?
But here’s the truth — it’s not laziness. It’s not a lack of confidence. It’s anxiety.

Because each of us has a Math Story.
Some stories are good. Some, not so much.
Maybe yours began with racing to be the fastest in “Around the World,” or memorizing steps to get the answer first. Maybe it’s standing at the board while the teacher asks the class, “Are they right?” — even though everyone, including you, knows you’re wrong.

So let’s stay together — and let’s help our students do the same.

🎧 Listen to the full episode

💬 Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow teacher who’s ready to bring new energy and joy to math learning.

📘 Order your copy of the Word Problem Workshop book today and start building a classroom where students think deeply, collaborate often, and love solving problems.

Math education is changing fast — and few people are leading that change more thoughtfully than John SanGiovanni, a math educator, district leader, and author of numerous influential books. In this episode of our math education podcast, John shares the conversations we should be having about teaching math — and what’s getting in the way.

John offers a refreshingly candid take on what’s missing from our current math dialogue — and why focusing on instructional quality, not gadgets or gimmicks, is the way forward.

💻 Links Mentioned in this Episode

Books by John SanGiovanni:

📘 Productive Math Struggle: A 6-Point Action Plan for Fostering Perseverance

📘 Figuring Out Fluency in Mathematics Teaching and Learning, Grades K-8: Moving Beyond Basic Facts and Memorization

Website - https://www.sangiomath.com/

🔗 Listen, Learn, and Lead Change

🎧 Tune in now to hear the full conversation with John SanGiovanni — and explore what’s next for math instruction and curriculum design.

Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with a colleague who cares about reimagining math education.

How to Increase Student Confidence in Math without Changing Your Curriculum

May 7, 2026 at 11:30 Central - Zoom 

Sign up NOW - monamath.com/leaderworkshop

It’s here — the Word Problem Workshop book is officially out in the world! 

Every teacher knows the struggle — students disengaged, confused, or quick to say, “I’m not a math person.” This book was born out of that challenge. It’s a response to years of listening to teachers, watching classrooms, and realizing something had to change.

🔗 Listen, Celebrate, and Join the Movement

🎧 Tune in to the full episode to celebrate the launch of the Word Problem Workshop book and hear the story behind it all.

💬 Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow teacher who’s ready to make math meaningful again.

📘 Grab your copy of the Word Problem Workshop book today and start building a math classroom where students thrive as thinkers and problem solvers.

In this special episode of Math Chat, we sit down with Kassia, the brilliant editor who played an instrumental role in shaping the Word Problem Workshop book. With her keen eye and unwavering support, Kassia helped turn ideas into action, ensuring the book would resonate with teachers and make a real difference in math classrooms. Curious about the behind-the-scenes process and the heart of this book? Keep reading to get a sneak peek into our conversation!

Ready to Transform Your Math Classroom?

Listen, Subscribe, and Leave a Review

This episode with Kassia provides incredible insight into the Word Problem Workshop book and the passion behind its creation. If you’re ready to revolutionize your math instruction, don’t miss out! Listen to the full episode, subscribe to Math Chat, and leave a review. Plus, grab your copy of Word Problem Workshop and access free resources and downloads. Get started today!

So, I’m sitting here with my coffee, reflecting on how surreal it feels that Word Problem Workshop is finally a real book — something teachers can actually hold in their hands. Before it hits shelves, I wanted to take you behind the scenes of how it came to life: the “why,” the “how,” and the “who” behind every page. If you’ve ever felt like your students just don’t get it, this episode — and this book — are for you.

🔗 Ready to Dive In?

If you’ve ever watched your students groan at a word problem — this book is for you.
 👉 Tune in to the full episode to hear the behind-the-scenes story of Word Problem Workshop and how it can transform your teaching.

🎧 Listen now, subscribe to the podcast, and leave a review to let us know what you think.

How to Increase Student Confidence in Math without Changing Your Curriculum

May 7, 2026 at 11:30 Central - Zoom 

Sign up NOW - monamath.com/leaderworkshop

Imagine walking into a classroom where math doesn’t just happen on the board, but is a lively conversation in every corner. Mark Golden’s math classroom, especially during Word Problem Workshop (WPW), is where students actively engage, ask questions, and challenge each other’s thinking. The sounds of excited voices collaborating, the visuals of students working on complex problems together, and the palpable energy of intellectual curiosity make this classroom an exciting place to be. If you’re curious about what this environment feels like in action, this segment will give you a front-row seat!

Mark’s insights into teaching, student transformation, and the Word Problem Workshop approach are just the beginning. To hear more about his journey and how you can implement these powerful strategies in your own classroom, listen to the full podcast. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and download our latest teaching resources to keep your classroom thriving!

How to Increase Student Confidence in Math without Changing Your Curriculum

May 7, 2026 at 11:30 Central - Zoom 

Sign up NOW - monamath.com/leaderworkshop

In this episode of Math Chat, we dive deep into planning for Word Problem Workshop (WPW) and how to maximize your preparation time. Instead of focusing on what students will do, we’re shifting the focus to how students will engage with and solve math problems. Want to learn how to plan math lessons that encourage deep thinking and problem-solving? Keep reading!

When planning math lessons, we typically spend time thinking about the activities, practice problems, and worksheets. However, to truly empower students, we should focus on how they will solve the problems. This shift in focus—from the what to the how—will allow you to support students in thinking critically, making connections, and understanding math deeply. If you’re ready to revolutionize your planning, this episode will give you the insights you need.

Ready to Plan Your Next Math Lesson?

Listen, Subscribe, and Leave a Review

If you’re excited to implement Word Problem Workshop in your classroom, don’t miss this episode. Listen now, subscribe for more episodes, and leave a review to share your thoughts. Plus, grab your copy of the Word Problem Workshop book and take advantage of all the free downloads and resources included. 

Podcast Episodes Mentioned:

🎙️ Ep 168 - Step 1 of WPW

🎙️ Ep 169 - Step 2 of WPW 

🎙️ Ep 171 - Step 3 of WPW

🎙️ Ep 173 - Step 4 of WPW 

🎙️ Ep 175 - Step 5 of WPW

🎙️ Ep 178 - Mark Golden Interview

In this episode of Math Chat, we welcome Amanda, a teacher who has completely transformed her math instruction through Word Problem Workshop (WPW). Together, we dive into the powerful shifts she’s made in her teaching practice, and how these changes have influenced her students’ growth, confidence, and love for math. If you're looking for inspiration and practical tips for your own classroom, this episode is for you!

Amanda opens up about her own experiences with math as a student and how it shaped the way she now teaches. Reflecting on her "before and after" moments, she shares how moving from a more traditional approach to Word Problem Workshop has radically changed her perspective—and her students' results.

Listen, Subscribe, and Leave a Review!

This episode offers a wealth of insight from a teacher who’s experienced firsthand the power of Word Problem Workshop. If you’re ready to transform your own math instruction, be sure to subscribe, listen to the full episode, and leave a review. And don’t forget to grab your copy of Word Problem Workshop: 5 Steps to Creating a Classroom of Problem Solvers—it could be the tool you need to empower your students today!

How to Increase Student Confidence in Math without Changing Your Curriculum

May 7, 2026 at 11:30 Central - Zoom 

Sign up NOW - monamath.com/leaderworkshop

In this episode, we dive into the power of reflection in the Word Problem Workshop (WPW). If you're an educator seeking to enhance student learning through meaningful discussions, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Learn how adding just one simple step—Reflect—can shift your classroom dynamic and help your students internalize what they’ve learned.

How Reflection Makes Learning Stick

That’s when I introduced the “Reflect” step to WPW. Rather than wrapping up a discussion and moving on to the next topic, I began asking students to revise their work and think critically about what they had just learned. It’s a game-changer, and it all boils down to one powerful quote: “We do not learn from experience, we learn from reflecting on experience.”—John Dewey.

Listen, Subscribe, and Leave a Review!

This episode offers just a glimpse of how reflection can make your math lessons more impactful. To dive deeper into these strategies, be sure to subscribe and leave a review. Don't forget to check out the upcoming interview episode on October 9th—it’s going to be epic! And for those of you ready to level up your WPW routine, grab your copy of the book—pre-order it now before the bonuses disappear!

In this episode, we sit down with Meghan Princehorn, a school social worker, to talk about the powerful connection between social emotional skills and success in the classroom—especially in math. Meghan shares insights from nearly two decades of collaboration and practical strategies you can use right away.

We explore the “window of tolerance” and how it affects a student’s ability to learn, problem-solve, and think clearly. Meghan shares simple ways teachers can help students stay in that optimal zone throughout the day. These skills don’t just calm students—they create the foundation for deeper learning.

This episode is packed with strategies you can put into action right away. If you’re ready to create a classroom where students are confident problem-solvers, you won’t want to miss it.

🎧 Listen now, subscribe to the podcast, and leave a review so more teachers can join the conversation.

How to Increase Student Confidence in Math without Changing Your Curriculum

May 7, 2026 at 11:30 Central - Zoom 

Sign up NOW - monamath.com/leaderworkshop

Talking is my thing—I love it! But in the classroom, I’ve learned it’s not just about giving students time to talk. It’s about teaching them how to discuss math in ways that deepen understanding, build confidence, and move learning forward. In this episode, we dive into the power of math discussions in Step 4 of Word Problem Workshop.

Picture it: students in a circle, shoulder to shoulder, all voices visible and heard. They use hand signals to show they’re ready to speak and call on each other directly. The teacher steps back, guiding when needed, but the conversation belongs to the kids. This structure turns math talk into true collaborative learning.

Step 4 of Word Problem Workshop shows us that math discussions transform learning. Want to dig deeper? Listen to the full episode, subscribe to the podcast, and leave a review.

What does it really take to create a classroom where students not only learn math but also trust themselves, their peers, and their teacher? In this episode, I sit down with educator Ed Spicer to talk about building a math classroom community where students are independent, curious, and unafraid of hard things.

A Classroom That Changed Everything

When I first visited Ed Spicer’s 1st grade classroom, I was floored. His students weren’t waiting for instructions—they were running through morning routines on their own, journaling, exercising their brains, and preparing for the day with total independence. In this episode, Ed shares how creating a strong classroom community builds student ownership and transforms learning.

Connect with Ed - edspicer@mac.com

🎧 Listen Now
This episode is packed with insights on building classroom community in math, fostering independence, and helping kids embrace challenges with confidence. Tune in today, subscribe for more conversations like this, and don’t forget to leave a review to help us reach more educators and families!

📘 Want to go deeper? Join my Book Launch Crew and grab your copy of Word Problem Workshop when it drops this fall.

How to Increase Student Confidence in Math without Changing Your Curriculum

May 7, 2026 at 11:30 Central - Zoom 

Sign up NOW - monamath.com/leaderworkshop

Does your math class feel like only a handful of students ever raise their hands while the rest stay silent? Or maybe your students avoid sharing out of fear of being wrong? You’re not alone—many teachers face this challenge. In today’s episode, we’re diving into Step 3 of Word Problem Workshop: the Share, and how it can transform your math classroom into a motivated community of problem-solvers.

When I taught both 1st and 5th grade, I noticed the same pattern—students hesitated to share their thinking. Younger students often relied on a few eager classmates, while older students were afraid of being wrong. This episode starts with that familiar struggle and sets the stage for why Step 3 is such a game changer.

Ready to Transform Your Math Classroom?

If you’re intrigued by this process, make sure to listen to the full episode for classroom-tested strategies and insights. Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it with a colleague who’s ready to build a stronger math community.

👉 Want more? Be sure to preorder the book where I share all the details, examples, and tools you need to put Word Problem Workshop into action.

What happens when we stop teaching math as a set of steps to memorize and instead create space for students to explore, question, and discover? In this episode, we dig into how shifting our approach to math instruction can transform classrooms—and mindsets.

This episode is packed with insights and practical strategies for making math class more engaging, joyful, and effective. Tune in to hear the full conversation, subscribe for future episodes, and leave a review to help us reach more educators.

💬 If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a teacher friend—it helps more educators discover Word Problem Workshop.

How to Increase Student Confidence in Math without Changing Your Curriculum

May 7, 2026 at 11:30 Central - Zoom 

Sign up NOW - monamath.com/leaderworkshop

We’ve all heard about the importance of productive struggle in math—but what does it actually look like in practice? In this episode, I share why Grapple Time is one of the most powerful parts of Word Problem Workshop, how to prepare students to persevere, and the exact four teacher moves you can make while students are solving.

Wondering what this looks like day-to-day? I walk you through my four concrete teacher moves during Grapple Time:

1. Scan – Take the first 30 seconds to see who’s stuck, who’s thriving, and where you may need to step in.
2. Walk – Move around the room neutrally, observing and jotting down strategies without telling students what’s “right.”
3. Zone In – Focus on a few students who are showing interesting strategies or who need redirection.
4. Ask – Hold brief conferences, nudging students with questions like, “What are you thinking?” or “How did you start?”

These moves keep you active and intentional without stealing the struggle from students.

🎧 Ready to learn the full details of how to facilitate Grapple Time? Listen to the full podcast episode now!
 💬 If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a teacher friend—it helps more educators discover Word Problem Workshop.

It’s a common belief: “My students can’t read, so they need to master simple math first before tackling word problems.” But what if this thinking is actually holding students back? In this episode, we challenge the unproductive idea that kids must learn the basics first, and instead explore how word problems can be the foundation for building math proficiency.

The Word Problem Workshop (WPW) is structured with five predictable steps, and it all begins with the Launch. This step sets the stage, builds excitement, and helps students make sense of the problem before solving. By connecting the task to their background knowledge (like counting apples on a lunch tray), students immediately see how their experiences are valuable tools for problem solving.

🎧 Tune in now to hear the full episode, subscribe to the podcast, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway!
📘 Want more strategies? Join the Word Problem Workshop Book Launch Crew and get early access to tools that will transform your math instruction.

You’ve probably heard the saying “Go slow to go fast” — but what does that actually look like in a math classroom? In this episode, we’re tackling one of the biggest challenges teachers face: balancing the pacing guide with the reality of diverse learners. We’ll dig into why slowing down might actually be the most powerful way to accelerate math proficiency for all students.

🎧 Listen now, subscribe to the podcast, and leave a review to share your biggest takeaway!
📘 Want to go deeper? Join my Book Launch Crew and grab your copy of Word Problem Workshop when it drops this fall.

It’s back-to-school season, and if you’re running on caffeine and sheer willpower, this episode is for you. The copy machine is acting up, your prep time is shrinking, and yet—you’re slowly building something amazing with your new class. 

In today’s episode, we’ll talk about launching word problems in math from the very first week to set the tone for a year of problem-solvers, not just answer-getters.

Feeling overwhelmed by planning? I’ve got you covered with my First Week of Word Problem Workshop resources for K–2 and 3–5. These ready-to-go plans include SEL connections, sample problems, prompts, and teacher questions so you can focus on teaching—not reinventing the wheel. Grab them here:

• First Week of WPW K–2
  
  
• First Week of WPW 3–5

🎧 Listen to the full episode of the Math Chat Podcast for the stories, strategies, and teacher gems that will help you kick off problem-solving right.
✅ Subscribe so you never miss an episode
💬 Leave a review to help more teachers find the show

If you’ve ever had a student say, “I’m just not a math person”, you know how powerful that belief can be. Math identity—how students see themselves in relation to math—can either open the door to learning or slam it shut. In this episode of Math Chat Podcast, we explore how to shift those fixed beliefs by reframing what math is and who it’s for.

The Word Problem Workshop (WPW) framework is designed to help all learners engage in problem-solving at their own pace. You’ll learn how the “Grapple” step invites productive struggle, the “Share” step encourages diverse strategies, and the “Reflect” step solidifies understanding. This structure turns mistakes into learning moments and makes math a place where every student can shine.

🎧 Listen to the full episode of Math Chat Podcast to hear the stories, strategies, and examples in detail.

 ✅ Subscribe so you never miss an episode
💬 Leave a review to help more teachers find the show
📚 Pre-order the book + grab your bonus Word Problem Pack here and start building math confidence in your students today!

Starting the school year can feel overwhelming—but what if teaching routines didn’t have to be boring? In this episode, I’m showing you how to set up essential classroom routines and build a strong classroom community right from day one. You’ll walk away with ideas you can use immediately to make lining up, group work, and transitions smooth and stress-free.

Want to skip the trial and error? I’ve created a 28-routine Classroom Routines Pack on TPT, complete with lesson plans, prompts, and activity ideas for everything from turning in homework to transitioning between lessons. It’s designed to save you time and help you establish strong systems from the very first day.

🎧 Listen to the full episode of Math Chat Podcast now to get all the details, stories, and bonus tips!

Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a teacher friend who’s ready to start the year strong.

 👉 Download my Classroom Routines Pack on TPT to make Day 1 (and every day after) smooth, organized, and fun!

If your math block feels more like crowd control than joyful problem solving, this episode is for you. We’re talking about how proactive math classroom management strategies can help you stop reacting to behavior and start building a smooth, focused learning environment where students thrive — especially during challenging math work.

🛠️ Simple Steps to Implement Proactive Math Classroom Management

Ready to take action? Here’s where Mona gets super practical:

Step 1: Set Up Predictable Systems

Start with your most chaotic moments (e.g., math block entry, cleanup, carpet time) and turn them into predictable routines. The clearer your instructions, the calmer your classroom.

Step 2: Master Your Transitions

Transitions don’t have to be chaotic. Mona shares specific scripts and cues to create smooth, consistent shifts that preserve your instructional time and reduce behavioral hiccups.

Step 3: Build Norms with Your Students

When students help co-create the expectations, they’re far more likely to follow them. Mona shares how to engage students in developing classroom norms — and points to previous episodes that dig even deeper.
Grab the TPT product Math Norm Posters & Plans here https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Math-Norms-6205708 

🔁 Listen + Subscribe + Join the Movement

If today’s episode on proactive math classroom management strategies sparked new ideas, don’t keep them to yourself:

✅ Subscribe to Math Chat wherever you get your podcasts
✅ Leave a review — it helps more teachers find strategies that work
✅ Read it here: 3 Steps to Set Predictable Math Routines
✅ Tag Mona on Instagram @hellomonamath and let her know how proactive routines are transforming your classroom

Have you ever felt like every new math strategy or program is just more to juggle? From colorful problem-solving cards to trendy new resources, it's easy to feel like you're constantly adding to your plate — without seeing deeper learning stick. In this episode, Mona Iehl shares how she stopped the cycle of piling on and started using a student-centered math approach that truly transformed her classroom.

🔄 Ready to Shift? Here’s How to Make It Happen

You don’t need a new curriculum—you need a new lens. Here are Mona’s three actionable tips to shift from an add-on mindset to a student-centered math approach:

1. Ask yourself: Does this help students think?
   If it’s busy work, skip it. If it builds reasoning, keep it.
2. Look for overlap, not extras.
   Use new strategies that align with what you're already doing—not that compete with it.
3. Give yourself permission to pass.
   Just because it’s trendy doesn’t mean it fits your teaching style or your students’ needs.

🎧 Listen + Subscribe

Ready to make math teaching lighter, deeper, and more joyful?
🎧 Tune in now to hear the full episode
💌 Subscribe to the Math Chat podcast so you never miss an idea that makes your math block better
⭐ Leave a review to help more teachers stop adding more and start teaching with clarity and purpose
📥 Join Word Problem Workshop HERE!

What do horoscopes and homework have in common? More than you think—especially in the world of inclusive math education. In this episode, Mona sits down with Vanessa Vakharia, aka The Math Guru, to talk about smashing stereotypes, redefining math identity, and using creativity (yes, even astrology!) to reimagine math class as a space for joy and empowerment.

🎧 Tune In, Smash the System, and Reimagine Math Education

This episode is a must-listen for any educator ready to rethink what math class can and should be. Whether you’re curious about astrology or just tired of the “one right answer” narrative, Vanessa and Mona will inspire you to build a math classroom full of creativity, equity, and true student voice.

👉 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts
👉 Subscribe to stay in the loop with more equity-driven math episodes
👉 Leave a review to help more teachers discover Math Chat

Have you ever stared at your lesson plans, pacing guide, and testing calendar and wondered: How am I supposed to fit all of this in? If so, this episode was made for you. Host Mona Iehl, math coach and creator of Word Problem Workshop, helps you shift from cramming content to making room for deep thinking, math talk, and student growth.

We’ve all asked it: How do I fit it all in? But Mona flips the script and offers a more powerful question: What really needs to fit? This episode challenges the pressure to cover every problem in the textbook and reminds us that our real job is to help students make sense of math—not race through content.

💡 3 Practical Shifts to Restructure Your Math Block (5–6 min read)

Ready to start reclaiming your math block? Mona offers three actionable strategies to create more space for student thinking without throwing out your curriculum:

⭐️ 1. Get Clear on What’s Non-Negotiable

Use standards to identify what truly matters. Not all content is created equal—focus on the major work of your grade and spend time where it counts.

⭐️ 2. Build a Predictable Structure

Students thrive on routine. Mona shares a time-tested structure:

• Warm-Up (10 min): Number talks, WODB, number of the day
• Word Problem Workshop (25 min): Open problems, real-world contexts
• Curriculum/Small Groups (25 min): Fluency, centers, skill practice

⭐️ 3. Use Curriculum as a Source, Not a Script

Start with the juicy problems—often hidden at the end of a lesson. Let students grapple first, then facilitate discussion to name strategies and build understanding. The deep thinking comes first—the direct teaching comes after.

🎧 Listen, Subscribe, and Let’s Redesign That Math Block Together

✅ Listen to the full episode to learn how to shift your mindset and get practical steps to transform your math time
✅ Subscribe to Math Chat so you never miss an episode
✅ Leave a review to help more teachers find the support they need

If you're trying to reach every student by creating multiple versions of your math lesson—this episode is for you. Host Mona Iehl, math coach and creator of Word Problem Workshop, shows you how to differentiate effectively without doubling your workload. The secret? One well-chosen, open-ended problem—and the right mindset to support it.

Many of us grew up believing that differentiation meant creating different work for different learners—and then spent hours doing just that. But Mona breaks down a more effective approach: planning for variation, not perfection. Differentiation happens when we vary the content, process, product, or learning environment—not when we run ourselves ragged with busywork.

🧠 Content, Process, Product, and Environment: A Fresh Framework

Let’s get specific. Mona walks you through the four core elements of differentiated instruction in math:

• Content: Vary numbers or contexts within the same task
• Process: Offer choices—tools, strategies, partners
• Product: Let students show thinking in multiple ways
• Environment: Build spaces that support focus and risk-taking

Whether it’s offering manipulatives, flexible seating, or celebration of “messy” math, these strategies help all learners thrive.

🎧 Listen, Subscribe, and Simplify Your Math Block

 ✅ Listen to the full episode to discover a better way to differentiate in math
 ✅ Subscribe to the podcast so you never miss a strategy
 ✅ Leave a review to help more educators build flexible, inclusive math classrooms

In today’s episode, Mona welcomes special education teacher and SEL expert Allie Szczecinski to unpack a topic that’s often overlooked in math: social emotional learning (SEL). With over 15 years of experience and a brand-new book, Their Best Behavior, Allie shares how weaving SEL into your math instruction can build stronger thinkers, more confident students, and a calmer classroom.

🎧 This one’s a must-listen if you’ve ever thought, “My students could do the math… if only they believed they could.”

📘 Their Best Behavior by Allie Szczecinski

🎧 Listen, Subscribe, and Start the Shift

Ready to build a math class that supports the whole child?
✅ Listen to the full episode for inspiration and practical ideas
✅ Subscribe to the podcast so you never miss a strategy
✅ Leave a review to help more educators discover the power of SEL in math

Is your math block filled with silence so thick you can hear pencils stretching? This episode is for you. Host Mona Lehl is flipping the script on what a “focused” math class sounds like—and spoiler alert: it’s not silent. Real math thinking creates a buzz, and Mona is here to help you lean into the noise.

🔧 3 Ways to Keep the Math Talk Productive 

Worried the noise will spiral into chaos? Mona shares three practical strategies that turn chatter into meaningful collaboration:
1️⃣ Build a Routine for Collaboration – When talk time is expected and structured, students step up.
2️⃣ Set Clear Expectations – Model what great math talk sounds like, and practice it together.
3️⃣ Give Kids Time – Confidence takes time. Celebrate effort, not just polished answers.

🧠 You’ll walk away with ready-to-implement ideas you can try tomorrow.

🎧 Subscribe, Review & Let the Buzz Begin

If today’s episode gave you that little nudge to embrace the productive hum of math talk:
 ✅ Follow the show so you don’t miss future episodes
 ✅ Leave a review to help more teachers discover Math Chat

🎙️ Thanks for being the kind of teacher who gives students the space to speak—and the confidence to believe they belong in math.

Until next time, embrace the buzz. Your classroom isn’t too loud—it’s alive.

If you've ever scrolled past a flawless math lesson on Instagram and thought, “That could never be me,” this episode is for you. Host Mona—former teacher, math coach, and author of the upcoming Word Problem Workshop—gets real about what it actually takes to be a great math teacher. Spoiler: it’s not perfection or having all the answers. It’s creating the space for your students to think.

🎧 Ready to change the way you think about teaching math? You’ll want to hear this one.

📥 Enroll now at monamath.com/wpwteacher

🎧 Tune In, Subscribe, and Grow With Us

If today’s episode helped shift your thinking about great math teaching, we’d love for you to:
✅ Listen to the full episode
✅ Subscribe so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review to help other educators find support

Hey teacher friend! Have you ever stared at your math curriculum thinking, “This is... fine, I guess?” You don’t hate it—but it’s definitely not lighting a fire for student thinking. In this episode, Mona, a math coach and author, shares why the curriculum you already have might just be your biggest asset—if you know how to use it differently.

🛠️ The How: 3 Shifts You Can Make Right Away

1. Start with One Word Problem
Instead of overwhelming students with a page full of problems, choose one rich task and let them grapple. This builds stamina and confidence.

2. Change the Order, Not the Content
If your materials start with a formal algorithm, flip it! Let students explore their own strategies first, then connect to the textbook method.

3. Use Your Curriculum as a Launchpad, Not a Script
Highlight one problem and ask, “What thinking could this spark?” Rethink it as a conversation starter, not just a checkbox.

These small but powerful shifts will help you transform your existing materials into meaningful, student-centered lessons—without needing a single new purchase.

🎧 Final CTA: Learn to Use What You Have—Starting This Summer

Ready to make this vision a reality? Join me in the Word Problem Workshop Teacher Training. For just $77 (until tomorrow!), you’ll learn how to transform your current curriculum into a student-centered routine you’ll use all year long.

You’ll get:
 🎥 On-demand video training
 📁 Done-for-you templates
 📚 A full year of word problems
 💬 Ongoing support all summer long

👉 Grab your spot HERE before the price increases.
Still not sure? DM me on Instagram @hellomonamath and we’ll figure it out together.

In this episode, we unpack a big question: What’s your vision for math classrooms? From years of visiting classrooms and leading professional development, our guest shares a powerful answer rooted in three values: joy, curiosity, and teacher sustainability. This isn’t just an ideal—it’s a framework leaders and teachers can work toward right now.

🛠️ Try These 3 Professional Learning Moves That Actually Work

Ready to lead transformative PD in your building? Here are three things you can try right away:

1. Attend PD yourself—model what it looks like to learn and grow.
2. Embrace curiosity—read, ask questions, and lead with an asset-based mindset.
3. Share what’s working—create in-house PD by spotlighting great teaching and inviting others to observe.

These strategies don’t cost much—but they make a big difference in staff morale, classroom quality, and student outcomes.

🎧 Ready to Reimagine Your Vision for Math Classrooms?

If this episode sparked a fresh perspective on what’s possible in your school or district, don’t stop here.
 👉 Listen to the full episode wherever you get your podcasts
 👉 Subscribe so you never miss a conversation that moves you forward
 👉 Leave a review to help more educators find us

Let’s keep building classrooms where everyone wants to stay.

Ever poured your heart into a math lesson only to hear a groan or a “Can’t you just tell us how to do it?” from your students? You’re not alone. In this episode, Mona—a former teacher turned math coach—dives into what’s really behind those reactions and how to shift them.

Ready to turn things around? Mona shares three actionable routines straight from her Word Problem Workshop that help kids engage, take risks, and actually enjoy thinking in math:

1. Start with the Grapple – Let kids wrestle with one rich word problem—no hints, just space to think.
2. Show Your Thinking – Use visuals and whiteboards to highlight the process, not just the final answer.
3. Celebrate Multiple Strategies – Use student sharing time to explore the diversity of ideas, not just the “correct” one.

👉 Explore the course at monamath.com/wpw

👋 Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

If this episode gave you a new perspective on what to do when kids don’t want to think in math class, share it with a friend, subscribe to the podcast, and leave a review—it helps more teachers find actionable support.
 And don’t forget to DM Mona on Instagram @hellomonamath—she’d love to hear how your students are showing up in math right now!

Ever looked at your stack of printed math worksheets and thought, “There’s got to be a better way”? You're not alone. In today’s episode, we’re flipping the script on word problems—and showing you how just a few small tweaks can stretch your students' thinking without stretching your copy limit.

In this episode, I dive into how to extend student thinking using the problems you already have—no extra pages required. You’ll learn what actually makes a word problem “good,” why how you use a task matters more than what the task is, and three easy ways to tweak your current word problems for deeper student reasoning.

Whether you're a new teacher looking to build problem-solving confidence or a seasoned educator tired of one-size-fits-all worksheets, this conversation will leave you encouraged, inspired, and ready to transform your math block into a space for real thinking.

✨ Resources and Links Mentioned:
🔗 Register for the Mini Workshop – June 20th 

🔗 Episode 150: 35 Questions to Get Students Thinking in Math Class

🔗 Download the Free 35 Questions Printable

📲 Stay Connected:
Follow Mona on Instagram → @hellomonamath
Visit the website → monamath.com

✨ Subscribe and leave a quick review to help more teachers find the show—and keep the math buzz going strong!

Is your math classroom a space of empowerment—or quiet struggle? In this episode, we’re unpacking what it really means to teach math equitably, with the brilliant Dr. Pamela Seda. Whether you're new to equity work or already deep in the journey, this conversation will challenge and inspire you.

In this episode, Jenn chats with Dr. Pamela Seda, math equity leader and creator of the ICUCARE® Equity Framework. You’ll learn how math can become a space of empowerment, why releasing control as a teacher can be the most powerful shift you make, and how to move from just “following the curriculum” to intentionally designing for equity.

Whether you're a classroom teacher, math coach, or education leader, this conversation will leave you thoughtful, energized, and ready to take one step toward deeper equity in your own space.

✨ Resources and Links Mentioned:

• 💻 Pamela's Website - https://www.sedaeducationalconsulting.com/
• 📧 Email - pamseda@sedaeducationalconsulting.com
• 📘 Choosing to See 
• 💻 FB Group - Choosing to See Math Equity 

📲 Stay Connected

👉 Follow me on Instagram: @monamath
🌐 Visit my website: monamath.com

❤️ Like What You Heard?

Don’t forget to subscribe to the Math Chat Podcast so you never miss an episode.
If this episode helped you, leave a quick ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review—it means the world and helps more teachers find us!

What if the questions you ask in math class could be the key to unlocking deeper thinking and real understanding? Today, we’re diving into the one question teachers ask me all the time: “What do I ask to get my students to explain their thinking?” 

Let’s turn those blank stares into lightbulb moments.

🎧 Episode Summary

In this episode, Mona breaks down the 7 types of questions that spark rich math talk and deeper understanding during Word Problem Workshop. You’ll learn:

• Why the right questions matter more than the right answers
• How to stop students from grabbing numbers and start thinking critically
• Go-to examples you can use in your next lesson

Whether you're a classroom teacher, coach, or math specialist, this episode will leave you feeling energized and ready to shift the way your students think, solve, and reflect.

✨ Resources and Links Mentioned:

🎯 Main Freebie: 35 Questions
📅 Mini Workshop: Word Problem Workshop

📲 Stay Connected

👉 Follow me on Instagram: @monamath
🌐 Visit my website: monamath.com

❤️ Like What You Heard?

Don’t forget to subscribe to the Math Chat Podcast so you never miss an episode.
If this episode helped you, leave a quick ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review—it means the world and helps more teachers find us!

Ever asked a math question and been met with total silence? Or felt like only a few kids are driving the whole conversation? You’re not alone — and today we’re fixing it.

In this episode, Mona dives into the subtle mistakes that can shut down rich math discussions — and the practical shifts that can turn things around.

 You’ll learn:
 ✅ What common habits unintentionally stifle student thinking
 ✅ Why these missteps matter more than you think
 ✅ Small, doable tweaks to spark deeper conversations

Whether you’re a K–6 math teacher, instructional coach, or administrator, this episode will leave you inspired and ready to lead powerful discussions where every student thinks, listens, and learns.

✨ Resources and Links Mentioned:

• 🎯 [Main CTA]: Grab the Word Problem Workshop book + training here: monamath.com/book/
• 📌 Check out the full episode notes + practical tools at: monamath.com/podcast
• 🎥 Want to see the discussion structures in action? Explore the WPW Teacher Training.

📲 Stay Connected:

• Follow me on Instagram: @monamath
• Visit the website: monamath.com

⭐ Subscribe & Review:

Love this episode? Tap “Follow” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and leave a quick review!

Your feedback helps more amazing educators discover the show — and it means the world to us.

Thanks for hanging out with me on Math Chat — let’s keep building classrooms full of problem-solvers! ✨

You don’t need a full-on classroom overhaul to start seeing change. In this episode, we’re talking about the “pebbles” — those small irritations or roadblocks in math class — and how you can start removing them with intentional, doable steps.

🎙️ Episode Overview

In this episode, Jon and Kyle chat about what’s really getting in the way of change in the classroom. You’ll learn how to identify your “pebbles,” what steps you can take to shift your teaching, and why your system might be working exactly as it’s designed — for better or worse.

Whether you’re a seasoned teacher or just starting out, this conversation will leave you feeling reflective and ready to make meaningful tweaks in your teaching journey.

✨ Make Math Moments with Jon and Kyle 

• 💻 https://makemathmoments.com/
• 🎙️ Spotify
• ⭐️ YouTube

📲 Stay Connected

• Follow on Instagram: [@hellomonamath]
• Visit the website: [monamath.com]

🎷 Love this episode?

Subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! It helps other thoughtful, motivated educators find the show — and keeps the ideas and inspiration coming your way.

Thanks for tuning in to Math Chat Podcast ✨

How to Increase Student Confidence in Math without Changing Your Curriculum

May 7, 2026 at 11:30 Central - Zoom 

Sign up NOW - monamath.com/leaderworkshop

Struggling to get your whole school on board with stronger math instruction? You’re not alone! 

In this episode, I’m sharing the framework I developed after seeing what actually works to transform school wide math culture — without burning out your teachers.

In this episode, Mona dives into the SHAPE framework — a 5-part approach to building a consistent, student-centered math program across an entire school. You’ll learn:

• Why quick-fix PDs often fail to move the needle
• How to shift teacher mindsets by showing, not telling
• What sustainable, scalable math success really looks like

Whether you're a school leader, math coach, or teacher who wants more clarity, this conversation will leave you feeling energized and ready to take the next step toward meaningful, lasting math change.

✨ Resources and Links Mentioned:

• 📣 Mona's Services

📲 Stay Connected:

• Follow on Instagram: [@hellomonamath]
• Visit the website: [monamath.com]

🎷 Love this episode?

Please subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! Your support helps more educators like you discover the show — and helps us keep bringing practical, inspiring content straight to your earbuds. 🎧

Thanks for tuning in to Math Chat Podcast!

Is your school choosing a new math curriculum? Before you dive into samples, demos, and committee meetings, listen in! I’m sharing the top three mistakes schools often make—and how you can avoid them to select a curriculum that truly supports students and teachers.

🎧 Episode Summary:
In this episode, I (Mona!) dive into the nitty-gritty of math curriculum selection. You’ll learn:
✅ The #1 step most schools skip (and why it matters)
✅ How to balance content quality with usability features
✅ Why curriculum alone isn’t the magic fix—and what to focus on instead

Whether you're a school leader, instructional coach, or classroom teacher, this episode will leave you empowered and ready to choose a math curriculum that aligns with your vision and sets your school up for success.

✨ Resources and Links Mentioned:
🔗 Main CTA: Book a call or learn about PD & coaching packages for 2025–2026: monamath.com/services
📥 Sign up for Mona Mail & grab tomorrow’s full Curriculum Selection Criteria List: monamath.com/newsletter
🎧 Related Episode: 33 - Math Culture Starts with a Strong Math Vision

 💻 Learn more about my work with schools and coaching support: monamath.com

📲 Stay Connected:
Follow me on Instagram → @monamath
Explore resources and more → monamath.com

Ever feel like your students don't have number sense? In this episode, we’re unpacking number sense with our guest, Christina Tondevold. Let’s dig in—it’s about to get good.

🎙️ Episode Overview

In this episode, Christina dives into Number Sense. You’ll learn:

• 🔑 Tips on Teaching Number Sense
• 🔑 Defining Number Sense
• 🔑 8 Ways to Add Number Sense to Your Classroom

…so you can feel confident in teaching number sense to your students.

Whether you’re a brand new teacher or a seasoned teacher, this conversation will leave you feeling confident and ready to build math minds.

✨ Resources and Links Mentioned

• 2️⃣ Number Sense Concepts in Prek-2nd Grade
• 1️⃣ Number Sense Concepts in 3rd-5th Grade
• 💻 Build Math Minds Website
• 💻 LearningTrajectories.org
• 📘 Teaching Student-Centered Mathematics: Developmentally Appropriate Instruction for Grades Pre-K-2 by John Van De Walle

📲 Stay Connected

• Follow on Instagram → @buildmathminds
• Check out the website → https://buildmathminds.com/
• Reach out anytime → info@buildmathminds.com

⭐ Enjoying the Show?

Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! And if this resonated with you, leaving a quick review helps others discover the show—and it seriously makes my day. 💛

Thanks for tuning in to Math Chat Podcast! 

How to Increase Student Confidence in Math without Changing Your Curriculum

May 7, 2026 at 11:30 Central - Zoom 

Sign up NOW - monamath.com/leaderworkshop

The Problem with “Yet”

We’ve all said it: “They just can’t do it… yet.”
But what if that tiny word is quietly lowering the bar?

In this episode, Mona shares her 🔥hot take and breaks down why “yet” isn’t always as empowering as we think and how it can unintentionally mask low expectations. You’ll hear stories from Mona’s own classroom, what a visiting teacher helped her realize, and what to say (and do!) instead of leaning on “yet.”

💡 Perfect for teachers who believe in growth mindset, but want to put it into real,  actionable practice.

📲 Let's Stay Connected:

• Follow on Socials @hellomonamath
• Visit www.monamath.com 

🎷 Love this episode? Please subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! Your support helps more elementary teachers find the show and helps me keep bringing you the best tips and inspiration for teachers like us! 

Thanks for tuning in to Math Chat Podcast! 

Today’s episode is all about counting—but not just any kind of counting. We’re diving deep into how kids think about numbers, quantity, and patterns… and we’ve got the perfect guest to guide us.

I’m thrilled to welcome Christopher Danielson to the show. If you’ve ever stumbled across Which One Doesn’t Belong or How Many?, you already know Christopher’s work gets students—and adults—thinking more deeply about math in ways that feel playful, thoughtful, and refreshingly human.

We are chatting about: 

• What is counting
• Why does counting matter
• How to support students through counting

Links mentioned in this episode:

• 📘 Which One Doesn't Belong?
• 📘 How Many? A Counting Book
• 📘 How Did You Count? 
• Christopher's Website 
• Math on a Stick
• Visual Patterns

How to Increase Student Confidence in Math without Changing Your Curriculum

May 7, 2026 at 11:30 Central - Zoom 

Sign up NOW - monamath.com/leaderworkshop

Today, we’re diving into a tough but important topic: Why are we so afraid to give kids hard math problems? If we’re being honest, it can feel uncomfortable to watch students struggle. We want them to feel successful, and sometimes it's tempting to step in and help too soon. But when we rescue students from struggle, we rob them of the chance to build resilience and problem-solving skills.

In this episode, we’ll talk about why hard problems are essential for deep learning, what holds us back from giving students these challenges, and how we can create a classroom where students see struggle not as something to avoid but as part of the learning process. I'll also share strategies you can use tomorrow to help your students grapple with tough problems while feeling supported. Let’s get started!

We are chatting about: 

• Why do we avoid giving hard problems
• Why hard problems are essential
• How to support students through hard problems

Links mentioned in this episode:

• 📘 Principles to Actions

Today, we're talking about 5 quick math talk strategies that will spark math conversations and increase engagement! 

As math teachers, we often feel like we're talking at our students. As you know it is easy to fall into the cycle of telling students what to do and how to do it in math. But, deep down what we really want is more engagement. If we’re being honest with ourselves talking and telling our students doesn’t lead to more engagement. What we really want is to get our students talking with each other about math?

In this episode, I’ll share a few simple strategies you can use tomorrow to get your students talking, thinking, and collaborating on math problems.

We are chatting about: 

• What are Quick Math Talk Strategies
• Why Spark Math Conversations
• How to Spark Math Conversations

Links mentioned in this episode:

• 📘 Principles to Actions

In today’s episode, we’re talking about comparison problems: what they are, why they’re tricky, and how we can help students build strategies to solve them.

We’re gonna start today’s episode with a problem. Omar made 22 baskets during practice. He made 9 more baskets than Eli. How many baskets did Eli make?

This is a comparison problem and there are 3 types of comparison problems we can use with students. And they are all hard! 

We are chatting about: 

• Different types of comparison problems
• Student strategies
• Tips for planning and facilitating this work in your classroom

Links mentioned in this episode:

• 📘 Waitlist for Word Problem Workshop Book

Imagine a student looking at you, frustrated, saying, 'I don’t get it.' It’s tempting to step in and rescue them, right?

Today, we’re talking about productive struggle—why it’s a game-changer for math classrooms and how to make it happen without letting kids flounder.

We are chatting about: 

• What productive struggle is
• Why it's important to let students struggle in the math classroom
• How to foster productive struggle 

Links mentioned in this episode:

• 📘 Principles to Actions

Welcome back to Math Chat! Today’s episode is all about how we can break free from the script and let our students lead. 

Today’s episode is going to require a shift in teacher mindset. So, if you are like me and a bit of a control freak, Type A if you will… then I’m talking to you. Letting go of control can actually help students learn more in math. I know it’s hard, but it is essential to day’s big idea. 

We are chatting about: 

• What student-centered learning in math is
• Why this approach to teaching math works
• How to do this and do it well

Links mentioned in this episode:

• 📘 Connecting the NCTM Process Standards and the CCSSM Practices
• Word Problem Workshop

Have Questions? 📱 My DMs on IG are always open @hellomonamath

If you've ever seen the spark in a student's eyes when they really get the joy of solving a tough problem, you know what I mean when I say math can be joyful. It’s all about creating the right environment.

Today, Pi day, we're serving up a slice of math joy by diving into how we can make problem-solving the most joyful part of our math classrooms.

We are chatting about: 

• What makes problem solving joyful
• Why use problem solving in math class
• How can we create joyful problem-solving in our classrooms

Links mentioned in this episode:

• 📘 Principles to Actions
• Word Problem Workshop
• When Sophie Thinks She Can't...

Have Questions? 📱 My DMs on IG are always open @hellomonamath

How do we create classroom communities that includes and values each member's expertise? In this episode, I'm sharing my NCTM session with you on empowering learners through math discourse.

We're chatting about: 

• How to partner with our students in math discussions to leverage each student's insights
• Strategies for teachers to use to build a strong math culture that supports mathematical discourse
• 3 student stories and examples of strategies I used to empower them to engage in math discussions

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Word Problem Workshop
• Cultivating Mathematical Hearts by Maria del Rosario Zavala, Julia Maria Aguirre
• A quote from an article titled “Student Representations at the Center: Promoting Classroom Equity” by Imm, Stylianou, and Chae 2008
• Choosing to See By Pamela Seda & Kyndall Brown
• My example video with Nairobi
• Guide to Engaging Math Discussions

While take a break from the podcast to write my book, enjoy these episodes: 

• Episode 85 with John SanGiovanni 
• Episodes 93 & 96 with Peter Liljedahl 
• Episode 73 Best First Week Activities (you can do these anytime) 
• Episode 107 Math Discussions: 3 Ways to Get Students Engaged 
• Episode 102: Talk less so students will talk more 
• Episode 97: 6 Ways to Love Teaching Math 
• Episode 82: Say This to Parents to Explain “New Math” 
• Episode 2: What is Student Centered Math (A look inside my classroom) 

Have Questions? 📱 My DMs on IG are always open @hellomonamath

How to Increase Student Confidence in Math without Changing Your Curriculum

May 7, 2026 at 11:30 Central - Zoom 

Sign up NOW - monamath.com/leaderworkshop

How do we get students to show their reasoning in our math classroom community? On today's episode, I'm sharing about a simple way to build community & student confidence with a simple lesson plan straight from my favorite research based instructional practice... Word Problem Workshop!

We are chatting about: 

• What is a math community & why it matters 
• The elements of the lesson plan 
• How each element builds an essential skill for our students' Social Emotional Development!

Links mentioned in this episode:

• 🆓 Guide to Engaging Math Discussion
• Word Problem Workshop
• 110: Building Thinking Classroom with Maegan Giroux

Have Questions? 📱 My DMs on IG are always open @hellomonamath

Are your students thinking deeply about math concepts? Today we are talking about having research-based instructional strategies for math to create student-centered classrooms. 

We are chatting about: 

• Why research based instruction matters
• The research Word Problem Workshop is based on 
• How you can have peace of mind knowing that the strategies and routines you are using in your classroom are based on research

You might also like:

• 5 Steps to a Student Centered Math Class
• Children’s Mathematics Cognitively Guided Instruction
• 124: Word Problem Workshop - What is it & Why you need it this school year

Leave a review!! 

If you love listening to Honest Math Chat, please take a few seconds to leave a review so other teachers know this is a valuable place to spend a few minutes each week. 

What math intervention curriculums actually work? This is one of the questions I get asked the most and today I'm excited to chat about all things math interventions with my friend, Juliana!

We're chatting about: 

• Having high expectations of our students
• The important piece math intervention curriculums miss 
• Just in time approaches to math interventions

Other links:

• 8 Ways to Build Math Classroom Community
• 90: Math Trauma and What to Do About It
• 49: 3 Expectations & "Just in Time Supports" in Math 

Connect with Juliana: 

• @collaborated.with.juliana on Instagram
• www.collaboratedwithjuliana.com
• Juliana's book: Teaching 6-12 Math Intervention: A Practical Framework to Engage Students Who Struggle

Have Questions? 📱 My DMs on IG are always open @hellomonamath

How to Increase Student Confidence in Math without Changing Your Curriculum

May 7, 2026 at 11:30 Central - Zoom 

Sign up NOW - monamath.com/leaderworkshop

Do math grades stress you out? If you are needing to get some grades in the grade book for progress reports, this episode will help you figure out what to grade, when to grade, and how to grade in math.

In this episode, we are chatting about: 

• Separating student behaviors and their academic achievement for math grades 
•  Formative assessments for math grades
• Unit tests or summative assessments for math grades 

You might also like:

• 128: What are the 5 Strands of Math Proficiency?
• 101: Math Problem Types & Why They Matter
• Guide to Engaging Math Discussions

Have Questions? 📱 My DMs on IG are always open @hellomonamath

Leave a review!! 

If you love listening to Honest Math Chat, please take a few seconds to leave a review so other teachers know this is a valuable place to spend a few minutes each week.

Do you use counting collections in your classroom? I have the expert you need to hear from on the show today!

Kathy shares practical tips to start using counting collections, helpful routines for counting collections, and how to use counting collections to differentiate our math instruction. You will feel empowered to start using counting collections or to use them in new ways after listening to this episode!

In this episode we will chat about: 

1. What counting collections are and how they can be used for K-5 students
2. How to integrate fractions and decimals content into counting collections in upper elementary grades
3. Extension questions to ask after using counting collections

About Our Guest, Kathy:
 
Kathy Minas is a math educator and the founder of The Math Collective. She holds a masters degree in General and Special Education from Teachers College, and her background in special education has shaped her approach to math instruction.

Kathy is committed to providing spaces for educators and school leaders to collaboratively deepen their understanding of effective, equity-focused math practices. She collaborates with educators in designing culturally relevant instruction that reflects the experiences and identities of their students, while providing points of entry for all learners.

Connect with Kathy: 

• @themathcollective on Instagram
• www.themathcollective.com

You might also like:

• 5 Practices for Orchestrating Math Discussions
• 5 Steps to a Student Centered Math Class

Have Questions? 📱 My DMs on IG are always open @hellomonamath

How to Increase Student Confidence in Math without Changing Your Curriculum

May 7, 2026 at 11:30 Central - Zoom 

Sign up NOW - monamath.com/leaderworkshop

What does it take to build a math community?

On this episode, we're talking about 3 things I don’t want you to miss in math class to help you forge a community of mathematicians that work together to problem solve through discussing their thinking, taking risks, and learning through mistakes.

We are chatting about: 

1. Creating entrance routines
2. Having discussion structures
3. Making room for kids to explain their math thinking

Links mentioned in this episode:

• 8 Ways to Build Math Classroom Community
• 121: What is Student-Centered Learning?
• 107: Math Discussions: 3 Ways to Get Students to Engage

Other episodes you might like:

• Wait! 3 Common Pitfalls When Trying Something New in Math

Have Questions? 📱 My DMs on IG are always open @hellomonamath

Leave a review!! 

If you love listening to Honest Math Chat, please take a few seconds to leave a review so other teachers know this is a valuable place to spend a few minutes each week.

You’re starting the school year and it’s time to set the bar high. Let’s talk about how you can get every child engaged now so that they stay engaged all year.

In this episode, I'm sharing 3 ideas to get every student engaged in math class.

We are chatting about: 

• Community building experiences that build trust, relationships, mindsets, and norms 
• Expectations and how to communicate them and provide accountability
• The importance of feedback and how it can be used for teachers AND students

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Thanks for the Feedback... I Think? (feedback picture book I mention!)
• 8 Ways to Build Math Classroom Community
• Principles to Action: Ensuring Mathematical Success for All

Other episodes you might like:

• 125: 3 Mistakes to Avoid When Planning for the Year
• 110: Building Thinking Classrooms with Maegan Giroux

Have Questions? 📱 My DMs on IG are always open @hellomonamath

Leave a review!! 

If you love listening to Honest Math Chat, please take a few seconds to leave a review so other teachers know this is a valuable place to spend a few minutes each week.

What does it actually look like for our students to be proficient in math? In this episode, we are talking about the 5 strands of math proficiency and breaking each of them down so we can design our math instruction to help students build their math proficiency in all 5 areas.

We are chatting about: 

• Conceptual understanding
• Procedural fluency
• Strategic competence
• Adaptive reasoning
• Productive disposition

Are you wondering What is Math Proficiency? What are the 5 Strands of Math Proficiency? Go and listen to episode #40 "What is Proficiency in Math?"

Links mentioned in this episode: 

• 6: Four Simple Steps to Teach Anything and Everything in Math Class
• 5 Steps to a Student Centered Math Class
• Adding it Up (A great resource on the 5 strands!)
• Children’s Mathematics Cognitively Guided Instruction (A resource for teaching CGI)
• 32: Elementary Math Teachers: Are you using research based instructional strategy to empower students?

How to Increase Student Confidence in Math without Changing Your Curriculum

May 7, 2026 at 11:30 Central - Zoom 

Sign up NOW - monamath.com/leaderworkshop

Are you thinking through your classroom management strategies for the new school year? I have the expert you need to hear from on the show today! 

Jenna shares practical tips so that you can feel confident in your classroom management. You will feel empowered to build strong classroom routines and relationships with your students after listening to this episode. 

In this episode we will chat about: 

1. How to build a strong classroom community (and Jenna's secret sauce!)
2. Practical tips for classroom management (and what Jenna would tell newer teachers about management)
3. Building a strong classroom management foundation at the beginning of the year and referring back to it often

About our guest, Jenna:

Jenna has been an elementary educator for 11 years in New York. She has taught second, third, and fourth grade and currently teaches second grade! Jenna wanted to be an educator since she was in second grade. She LOVES supporting educators through her Instagram platform, That Strong Teacher, where she helps teachers become strong and confident in classroom management.

Connect with Jenna: 

• @Thatstrongteacher on IG
• The Classroom Management Playbook

You might also like:

• 8 Ways to Build Math Classroom Community
• 87: Why you need SEL in Math Problem Solving...Now!

Have Questions? 📱 My DMs on IG are always open @hellomonamath

How to Increase Student Confidence in Math without Changing Your Curriculum

May 7, 2026 at 11:30 Central - Zoom 

Sign up NOW - monamath.com/leaderworkshop

Have you been thinking about how to establish clear expectations and a strong foundation for classroom management this school year? I’m not a big fan of rules… and this rule is the best rule.

On today's episode, I'm telling you about the only rule you need and how to use it.

We're chatting about: 

• The one classroom rule that changed the game for me
• Setting clear boundaries while preserving students' dignity in rule making
• How this rule is equitable, responsive, and provides ownership to students

Links mentioned in this episode: 

• Love and Logic
• How to Create a Love and Logic Classroom blog post
• Episode 75: Proactive Classroom management tips in 4 steps
• 8 Ways to Build Math Classroom Community

Have Questions? 📱 My DMs on IG are always open @hellomonamath

Leave a review!! 

If you love listening to Honest Math Chat, please take a few seconds to leave a review so other teachers know this is a valuable place to spend a few minutes each week.

Are you thinking about planning out your school year? 

On this episode, we’re going to talk about how to plan for your year that includes more than just your scope and sequence.

We chat about these 3 planning mistakes and what to do instead: 

• Focusing on the wrong content
• Misunderstanding "rigor"
• Leaving conceptual understanding till the end once kids “get the procedures” 

Links mentioned in the episode: 

• Planning for a Year of Math ($27 PD)
• Major math work for each grade level (achievethecore.org)
• Rigor in Mathematics

➡️ What do you think of when you hear the word "rigor?" - Send me your thoughts on IG @hellomonamath 

Are you looking for a way to support your students in building problem solving skills, a deep understanding of math and a positive math mindset?

In this episode, we are talking about Word Problem Workshop - my step-by-step plan for teaching problem solving in a student-centered way. 

We are chatting about: 

• Moving from the WHAT to the HOW in math 
• Using research to make shifts in how we plan, think about, and facilitate math 
• How Word Problem Workshop is a student-led approach to exploring and understanding math

Links mentioned in this episode: 

• Word Problem Workshop
• Moving From the WHAT to the HOW in Math Class 
• Helping Kids Become Math Problem Solvers
• 5 Steps to a Student Centered Math Class

Research mentioned in this episode:

• 5 Practices for Orchestrating Productive Mathematics Discussions 
• Children’s Mathematics, Second Edition: Cognitively Guided Instruction
• Principles to Actions: Ensuring Mathematical Success for All

Do you struggle with not having the time to create every math task yourself but knowing that what your curriculum has to offer just isn’t enough?

Take a deep breath, this episode is for you!

We are diving into: 

• The pros and cons of math curriculums 
• The pros and cons of teacher created lessons
• My recommendation for how to spend the bulk of your time during math planning

Links mentioned in this episode: 

• My interview with The Kindergarten Cafe podcast on getting new curriculum
• Year of Word Problems (K-5 for only $29!)
• High Quality Math Tasks List

You might like: 

• Principles to Action: Ensuring Mathematical Success for All 
• Guide to Engaging Math Discussions
• Word Problem Workshop

Have Questions? 📱 My DMs on IG are always open @hellomonamath

Leave a review!

If you love listening to Honest Math Chat, please take a few seconds to leave a review so other teachers know this is a valuable place to spend a few minutes each week.

What are schoolwide math norms and why are they important?

In this episode, we’re breaking down schoolwide math norms because they are a problem or nonexistent in almost EVERY school.

We are chatting about: 

• Why every school should have schoolwide math norms
• Examples of math norms
• How we establish and USE these norms for math

Links mentioned in this episode:

The Math Pact
8 Ways to Build Math Classroom Community
109: New Math: How to Get Everyone on Board

Have Questions? 📱 My DMs on IG are always open @hellomonamath

What is student-centered learning and why should we use it in math?

A student-centered math classroom has students doing the work – the thinking, doing, exploring, figuring out. The teacher is the guide on the side in that exploration and sense making.

In this episode, we're chatting about: 

• What student-centered learning is NOT (hint: out of control or easier for kids)
• The students' role in student-centered math
• The teacher’s role in a student-centered classroom
• How to plan and facilitate a student-centered math class

Other resources for student-centered math: 

• This article from Edutopia scratches the surface & can help you get started.
• Student Engagement Strategies on this article.
• What is a math discussion? Questions answered here!
• 4 Simple Steps to Teach ANYTHING in a student-centered math classroom!
• What is a student-centered math classroom?
• 5 Steps to a Student-Centered Math Class

Send me a DM on Instagram @hellomonamath

MATH COACHES: enrollment is open for Math Coach Huddle!

Are you looking for a math coach or to grow as a math teacher?

In this episode, we are talking about resources for teachers to use to grow their skills and knowledge (in case you are looking for summer learning opportunities!)

We're chatting about: 

• Setting our own goals as a teacher
• My favorite resources and PD for teaching math
• What to do if you don't have the funding to pay for PD

Links mentioned in this episode:

Empowering Math Discussions (This course is part 2 of Word Problem Workshop)
Word Problem Workshop
Math Coach Huddle 
One-on-One Virtual Math Coaching
Funding Opportunities PDF
Training for Administrators

You might also like:

5 Practices for Orchestrating Math Discussions
5 Steps to a Student Centered Math Class

My IG DMs are always open @hellomonamath 

Math teacher friend, you are powerful. I’m here to remind you of the 6 best teacher moves you can make in the math classroom in this upcoming school year! 

This episode will empower you to see your math teaching for what it truly is... ambitious. We are covering 6 ways you can make the most impact in your math classroom.

We are talking about: 

• Practical steps to empower your students in math
• The essence of what makes a great math class
• How to create a system to apply these power moves in your classroom

Links mentioned in this episode: 

• Guide to Engaging Math Discussions
• 5 Practices for Orchestrating Math Discussions
• Word Problem Workshop

You might also like:

• 113: The Only 3 Questions You Need to Ask

If you have taken Word Problem Workshop, send me a DM on Instagram  @hellomonamath or an email at hellomonamath@gmail.com. I would love to chat with you!

Does the gradual release model belong in math class?

In this episode, I'm going to argue that we do the opposite of the "I Do, We Do, You Do" instructional approach in math. Instead, I am going to walk you through teaching practices I've used to create equitable, student-centered math classes that empower students to BE mathematicians.

We are talking about: 

• What the GRR model is
• The math research says
• How to flip the GRR model (independent work ➡️  providing support as students remain in the lead ➡️  share ideas ➡️  summarize learning)

My favorite books mentioned in this episode:

• 📗Adding it Up 
• 📘Children’s Mathematics Cognitively Guided Instruction  
• 📙Principles to Action: Ensuring Mathematical Success for All 
• 📕5 Practices for Orchestrating Math Discussions 

You might also like: 

• 5 Steps to a Student Centered Math Class
• SALE: Empowering Math Discussions PD is only $77 until Tuesday, June 25th at 11:59pm ✨

Are you a math coach or looking to step into a coaching role? If so, learning from other math coaches is a great way to build your skills as a coach.

In this episode, I'm interviewing one of the greatest math coaches, Nicora Placa, on her approach to collaborative math coaching, creating learning environments for teachers to hone their craft, and her book filled with tools and practical tips for math coaches.

We are chatting about: 

• What collaborative coaching is
• Nicora's 6 tools for collaborative math coaching
• Answering FAQs from math coaches

Connect with Nicora:
http://nicoraplaca.com
Twitter/ X–  NicoraPlaca

You might also like:
Guide to Engaging Math Discussions

How to Increase Student Confidence in Math without Changing Your Curriculum

May 7, 2026 at 11:30 Central - Zoom 

Sign up NOW - monamath.com/leaderworkshop

Do you have students who struggle to access word problems in math? The truth is our students struggle to get started on word problems because they don’t have access.

This episode breaks down what access to word problems is and simple ways we can help our students get started with a three-step routine.

We are talking about: 

• What a launch routine is
• The steps in a launch routine
• How to tailor the launch routine to meet your students' needs

Links mentioned in this episode:

Launch: Word Problems (A Virtual PD Experience)
Word Problem Workshop

You might also like...

5 Steps to a Student Centered Math Class
Principles to Action: Ensuring Mathematical Success for All
84: Productive Struggle: Building Confident Problem Solvers

Have Questions? 📱 My DMs on IG are always open @hellomonamath

Leave a review!

If you love listening to Honest Math Chat, please take a few seconds to leave a review so other teachers know this is a valuable place to spend a few minutes each week.

Are you looking to create a math classroom that allows students to lead even as visitors come in? 

In this episode, we are talking about my rules for others as they enter my classroom. These rules allow my students to have the opportunity to lead the thinking and doing of math without being rescued too soon by an on-looker.

We're talking about: 

• How a student-centered classroom looks in math 
• Why and how students should lead in a math classroom
• The 3 rules I have for people entering my classroom (download them here for free!)

Links mentioned in this episode:

5 Steps to a Student Centered Math Class
Math Rules for your classroom

Other episodes you might like:

93: Consolidation with Peter Liljeddahl, author of Building Thinking Classrooms


Have Questions? 📱 My DMs on IG are always open @hellomonamath

Leave a review!! 

If you love listening to Honest Math Chat, please take a few seconds to leave a review so other teachers know this is a valuable place to spend a few minutes each week.

Are you looking for practical ideas for teaching Black history in your classroom? I have the perfect interview for you about how to incorporate past and present Black history into your classroom from a teacher who truly understands the classroom perspective.

This episode is about teaching Black history year around, not only during Black History Month and practical, simple ways to incorporate it in your classroom.

In this episode we'll chat about: 

• The purpose of Black History Month
• Teaching Black history year around
• Practical tips for incorporating Black history into your math block

About our guest, Dawnavyn James:

Dawnavyn James is an early childhood, elementary, and Black history educator, emerging scholar, and Black history researcher. She promotes the importance of Black history education in early childhood and elementary classrooms and is the author of Beyond February: Teaching Black History Any Day, Every Day, and All Year Long which centers her experiences teaching Black histories in elementary classrooms. Dawnavyn is currently pursuing her Ph.D. at the University at Buffalo and is a fellow at the Center for K-12 Black History and Racial Literacy Education.

Connect with Dawnavyn: 

• Instagram: @QueendomTeaching
• Beyond February

Also check out: 

• Math Person Bulletin Board

Leave a review!

If you love listening to Honest Math Chat, please take a few seconds to leave a review so other teachers know this is a valuable place to spend a few minutes each week.

Have Questions? 📱 My DMs on IG are always open @hellomonamath

How to Increase Student Confidence in Math without Changing Your Curriculum

May 7, 2026 at 11:30 Central - Zoom 

Sign up NOW - monamath.com/leaderworkshop

What questions do you need to ask during math? And no, you don't need a long list of questions to have great math discussions in your classroom. 

This episode is about simplifying the questions you ask during math and listening to student responses to gauge their level of understanding. 

We are talking about:

• 3 simple questions to ask students
• Student examples
• How asking questions can help our students think deeply about math

Links mentioned in this episode:

Word Problem Workshop
Guide to Engaging Math Discussions

Other episodes you might like:

107: Math Discussions: 3 Ways to Get Students to Engage

Have Questions? 📱 My DMs on IG are always open @hellomonamath

Do you want to do LESS as a teacher? 

This episode is about how doing less as a teacher can help our students to do more - while using our time to make the biggest impact possible. 

We are chatting about: 

1. How talking less will give students more time to talk
2. When you do less (like giving less problems) students can focus on thinking deeply about one or two problems
3. Supporting students less allows students to build skills to productively struggle and be empowered to see what they CAN do.

Links mentioned in this episode:

Research article on accountable talk 

Adding It Up: Helping Children Learn Mathematics

5 Steps to a Student Centered Math Class MonaMath.com/ebook

Other episodes you might like:

Wait! 3 Common Pitfalls When Trying Something New in Math

Have Questions? 📱 My DMs on IG are always open @hellomonamath

Leave a review!! 

If you love listening to Honest Math Chat, please take a few seconds to leave a review so other teachers know this is a valuable place to spend a few minutes each week.

Work With Me in 2024-25 School Year

Join the Webinar on May 16 at 3:30pm cst where I’ll be sharing my services and a glimpse into working with Chicago Math Group (my math coaching agency). 

Register for the webinar here: Monamath.com/Webinar

In the webinar I'll cover:a glimpse at the work I've done with schools from K to High School

1. a full run down of the services I offer
2. a price list
3. a simple way to get started working together

Don't miss this opportunity to make your schools' math goals a reality in 24-25 school year!

Join today by clicking HERE!

Have you ever had a math conference with a student when you ask them to describe their thinking and you are met with a blank stare?

This episode is about effective math conferences during grapple time. We need a plan for our math conferences and I'm sharing 5 simple steps to make your math conferences productive and empowering for students!

In this episode we will chat about: 

• 5 ways to get students talking and participating in math conferences
• Simple phrases to prompt students to share their thinking 
• Frequently asked questions about math conferences like: "How many conferences can you realistically do in a day?" 

Links mentioned in this episode:

“In the Moment, Conferring in the Elementary Math Classroom” by Jen Munson

"Making Sense of Mathematics for Teaching the Small Group" by Juli Dixion, Lisa A. Brooks, and Melissa R. Carli

Guide to Engaging Math Discussions

Other episodes you might like:

102: Talk Less So Students Talk More

92: Use Purposeful Techniques for Math Discussions, an Interview with Paola Sztajn

Have Questions? 📱 My DMs on IG are always open @hellomonamath

Leave a review!! 

If you love listening to Honest Math Chat, please take a few seconds to leave a review so other teachers know this is a valuable place to spend a few minutes each week.

Are you a primary teacher implementing Building Thinking Classrooms? I have the expert you want to know on the show today!! Maegan Giroux is the co-author of the about-to-release Building Thinking Classroom Tasks book for elementary! 

Even if you haven't started implementing Building Thinking Classrooms, Maegan is a dream to know! She is passionate about helping students become mathematicians through sense making and thinking. 

You will feel empowered to get your students thinking after you listen to today's episode with Maegan. 

In this episode we will chat about: 

1. task types and choice 
2. curriculum tasks vs. non-curriculum tasks 
3. scaffolding tasks for learners while maintaining rigor 

About our guest, Maegan Giroux:

Maegan had an unexpected journey to being a kindergarten teacher. As a middle school math teacher, Maegan loves the opportunity to also teach the youngest students because of the unpredictability and joy they bring each day! For the past 18 months Maegan and Peter Liljedhal have been working on a book full of tasks ready to use in your classroom. Set to release any day! 

Building Thinking Classroom: 

📙 Get your copy here 

💻 Facebook Group Here 

Have Questions? 📱 My DMs on IG are always open @hellomonamath

Work With Me in 2024-25 School Year

Join the Webinar on May 16 at 3:30pm cst where I’ll be sharing my services and a glimpse into working with Chicago Math Group (my math coaching agency). 

Register for the webinar here: Monamath.com/Webinar

In the webinar I'll cover:a glimpse at the work I've done with schools from K to High School

1. a full run down of the services I offer
2. a price list
3. a simple way to get started working together

Don't miss this opportunity to make your schools' math goals a reality in 24-25 school year! 

Join today by clicking HERE!

Have Questions? 📱 My DMs on IG are always open @hellomonamath

How to Increase Student Confidence in Math without Changing Your Curriculum

May 7, 2026 at 11:30 Central - Zoom 

Sign up NOW - monamath.com/leaderworkshop

Do you hear people talking about "New Math," but you're at a loss for how to convince them it's not so bad? 

This episode is about getting your school community on board with "New Math." It's good for kids, so we've all got to give it our best shot. 

In this episode we will chat about: 

• How School culture plays a role in New Math 
• The approach to take when trying something new 
• Questions to ask to shift your math culture 

Other episodes you might like: 

Learning Labs (Episode 42) 

Teacher Leader for Math Culture (episode 34) 

Links Mentioned: 

Monamath.com/Webinar

Work with me in 2024-25

Join me on May 16 at 3:30 pm CST where I’ll be sharing my services and a glimpse into working with Chicago Math Group (my math coaching agency). Register for the webinar here: Monamath.com/Webinar

Have Questions? 📱 My DMs on IG are always open @hellomonamath

🤩 "Make Struggle Productive" Challenge starting March 7th!

Standardized Test Stress is REAL. Today we're chatting about 3 ideas you can implement now to reduce standardized test stress.

In this episode we will chat about: 

1. Our goals for standardized tests 
2. 3 ways to empower students 
3. easy to implement ideas to use in the classroom now 

Links Mentioned: 

MonaMath.com/TestPrep

Have Questions? 📱 My DMs on IG are always open @hellomonamath

There is no point in having a math discussion if students aren’t listening to each other. 
It is a pointless, waste of time. 

You’re probably like dang, Mona, that’s harsh. And it is. But I don’t want you wasting your time if it’s not paying off. You don’t have extra time. I know that and I want whatever you’re doing to be well worth your time. 

I will say that math discussions are the best way to ensure students are able to communicate their thinking and deeply engage in complex math. 

Math discussions are my FAVORITE instructional strategies. 

📣 Don't miss this episode all about how to get your students to listen during math discussions!