Advertise on podcast: Making Math Moments That Matter

Are you struggling to turn your ambitious math educational goals into tangible results in your classroom or district? Have you been asking: Where should I focus the efforts of my district math pd plan for the remainder of this year and following years? This episode of "Making Math Moments That Matter" is crucial for educators and district leaders of mathematics who are seeking practical strategies to elevate the impact of their teaching and planning. By focusing on goal setting and planning in mathematics education, it addresses the common challenge of aligning educational objectives with measurable outcomes, ensuring that your teaching methods lead to significant, positive changes in student learning and engagement. What you’ll learn:  Insight into Effective Goal-Setting: Learn how to set precise, achievable objectives in your classroom, ensuring you're not overwhelmed while still making a significant impact.Strategies for Measuring Success: Discover how to define and measure key results, equipping you with tools to gauge the effectiveness of your teaching strategies accurately.Guidance on Prioritization and Focus: Gain an understanding of how to identify and concentrate on 'rocks' or major priorities, helping you to stay focused on what matters most in your educational journey.Listen to this episode now to transform your district math goals into measurable, impactful realities and start making math moments that truly matter. Resources:  Make Math Moments District Math Assessment Make Math Moments District Improvement Program Make Math Moments Academy District Math Leaders:  How are you ensuring that you support those educators who need a nudge to spark a focus on growing their pedagogical-content knowledge?  What about opportunities for those who are eager and willing to elevate their practice, but do not have the support?  Book a call with our District Improvement Program Team to learn how we can not only help you craft, refine and implement your district math learning goals, but also provide all of the professional learning supports your educators need to grow at the speed of their learning.  Book a short conversation with our team now.  Take your random grouping to the next level with this printable cards. Mix and match different groupings on the fly. Grab your cards here --> https://makemathmoments.com/random/ 

Explore the often unspoken struggles that even seasoned math teachers encounter when grappling with concepts in middle and high school grades. Gain insights into the power of anecdotal assessments for both understanding students and refining your own assessment practices. Discover practical approaches to implementing standards-based grading without getting lost in individual grades, and unravel the true purpose behind assigning grades. In this Mentoring Moment episode we bring back Nicholas Rhodes to continue exploring his pebbles in Standards Based Grading.  This is another Math Mentoring Moment episode where we chat with a teacher like you who is working through some problems of practice and together we brainstorm ways to overcome them.  You’ll Learn:  How even math teachers can still struggle to conceptually understand some of the mathematics we commonly share in middle and high school grades;Why anecdotally assessing where you believe students might be can be helpful to assess your own assessment practices;What is the best approach to attempting standards based grading without getting mixed up in all of the individual “grades”The true purpose of assigning grades; How we can redesign evaluations and assessments;  Resources:  Assessment For Growth: A Blueprint Course For Standards Based Grading in Math ClassMake Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units District Math Leaders:  How are you ensuring that you support those educators who need a nudge to spark a focus on growing their pedagogical-content knowledge?  What about opportunities for those who are eager and willing to elevate their practice, but do not have the support?  Book a call with our District Improvement Program Team to learn how we can not only help you craft, refine and implement your district math learning goals, but also provide all of the professional learning supports your educators need to grow at the speed of their learning.  Book a short conversation with our team now.  Take your random grouping to the next level with this printable cards. Mix and match different groupings on the fly. Grab your cards here --> https://makemathmoments.com/random/ 

As educators of mathematics around the world embrace the ideas shared in Building Thinking Classrooms, more and more students are being positioned to think collaboratively during math class instead of simply mimicking steps, rules, and procedures.  While this shift in mathematics teaching practice is a massive leap in the right direction, our work does not stop once students solve the thinking task at hand.  Rather, the real work for the facilitator now begins.  Join Peter Liljedahl, Jon Orr, and Kyle Pearce from the opening session of the 2023 Make Math Moments Virtual Summit as they discuss one of the most important, yet often overlooked parts of an effective problem based mathematics lesson: the closing. This is part 2 of the hour-long Keynote session from this past year’s Virtual Summit in November.  What You’ll Learn:  Practical Strategies for Dynamic Teaching: Learn how to adapt your teaching style to meet the evolving needs of your students, ensuring that each lesson is as effective as possible.Deep Dive into Consolidation Techniques: Gain insights into powerful consolidation methods, such as gallery walks and group discussions, that can enhance student understanding of complex concepts.Innovative Note-Taking Approach: Discover a structured note-taking method that not only aids in student learning but also encourages active participation and reflection. Resources:  2023 Make Math Moments Virtual Summit Make Math Moments Academy District Math Leaders:  How are you ensuring that you support those educators who need a nudge to spark a focus on growing their pedagogical-content knowledge?  What about opportunities for those who are eager and willing to elevate their practice, but do not have the support?  Book a call with our District Improvement Program Team to learn how we can not only help you craft, refine and implement your district math learning goals, but also provide all of the professional learning supports your educators need to grow at the speed of their learning.  Book a short conversation with our team now.  Take your random grouping to the next level with this printable cards. Mix and match different groupings on the fly. Grab your cards here --> https://makemathmoments.com/random/ 

Curious about the transformative power of leadership in mathematics education? Ever felt the challenge of aligning your strategic plan when it seems like you're constantly putting out fires? Join us in this episode where we unravel the critical importance of seeking support in leadership roles and dive into a conversation with Rob Baier, Executive Director of Mathematics and STEM at Pittsburgh Public Schools. If you're an educator navigating the complexities of coaching, consulting, or directing, this episode is your guide. Rob Baier, co-host of the Debate Math Podcast, shares insights on staying aligned to your strategic plan amidst chaos, the significance of andragogy in leading mathematics educators, and the key to optimizing coaching and professional learning models. Gain a profound understanding of why seeking appropriate support is crucial for educators stepping into leadership roles.Discover the transformative potential of andragogy in leading mathematics educators, offering a fresh perspective for educational leaders.Uncover actionable insights on reviewing coaching models, ensuring they optimally serve educators, and staying aligned with district vision and strategic plans.Ready to elevate your leadership game in mathematics education? Click now to listen and lead with newfound passion and impact. Don't miss this chance to reshape your approach and empower both educators and students in your district! You’ll Learn:  Why it is important for mathematics educators to seek out the appropriate support to take on leadership roles such as coaching, consulting, supervising, directing, etc.;Why mathematics leaders should consider studying and practicing andragogy in order to lead mathematics educators in their district; How reviewing your coaching and professional learning model on a regular basis will ensure it is optimally serving educators;How reviewing your curriculum resource and ensuring it supports the teaching of mathematics in a way that aligns with your district vision is critically important;How to stay aligned to your strategic plan for mathematics when you always feel like you’re putting out fires; and, As a leader how do we balance supporting teachers directly in a coaching role and trying to build capacity at scale in a district.  Resources:  Find Rob on X: @rob_baier  Debate Math Podcast with Chris Luzniak and Rob Baier District Math Leaders:  How are you ensuring that you support those educators who need a nudge to spark a focus on growing their pedagogical-content knowledge?  What about opportunities for those who are eager and willing to elevate their practice, but do not have the support?  Book a call with our District Improvement Program Team to learn how we can not only help you craft, refine and implement your district math learning goals, but also provide all of the professional learning supports your educators need to grow at the speed of their learning.  Book a short conversation with our team now.  Take your random grouping to the next level with this printable cards. Mix and match different groupings on the fly. Grab your cards here --> https://makemathmoments.com/random/ 

As educators of mathematics around the world embrace the ideas shared in Building Thinking Classrooms, more and more students are being positioned to think collaboratively during math class instead of simply mimicking steps, rules, and procedures.  While this shift in mathematics teaching practice is a massive leap in the right direction, our work does not stop once students solve the thinking task at hand.  Rather, the real work for the facilitator now begins.  Join Peter Liljedahl, Jon Orr, and Kyle Pearce from the opening session of the 2023 Make Math Moments Virtual Summit as they discuss one of the most important, yet often overlooked parts of an effective problem based mathematics lesson: the closing. This is part 1 of the hour-long Keynote session from this past year’s Virtual Summit in November. Look for part 2 in two weeks.  What You’ll Learn:  Gain insights into reevaluating traditional teaching methods and discover why "leveling to the top" might be holding back student engagement.Explore the power of the "Consolidating from the Bottom" strategy – a teaching approach designed to make lesson closure inclusive and effective for all students.Learn the art of responsive teaching, fostering flexibility in your lesson plans to create a dynamic, student-centered learning environment. Resources:  2023 Make Math Moments Virtual Summit Make Math Moments Academy District Math Leaders:  How are you ensuring that you support those educators who need a nudge to spark a focus on growing their pedagogical-content knowledge?  What about opportunities for those who are eager and willing to elevate their practice, but do not have the support?  Book a call with our District Improvement Program Team to learn how we can not only help you craft, refine and implement your district math learning goals, but also provide all of the professional learning supports your educators need to grow at the speed of their learning.  Book a short conversation with our team now.  Take your random grouping to the next level with this printable cards. Mix and match different groupings on the fly. Grab your cards here --> https://makemathmoments.com/random/ 

Have you ever wondered why creating a safe space for students in mathematics class is crucial? This episode of The Making Math Moments That Matter Podcast explores this question and unveils insights that will reshape the way you think about math education. In a world where educational equity is a pressing concern, ensuring that schools are safe places for students becomes paramount. This episode delves into the critical role of a safe environment, especially in mathematics classes. Discover how breaking free from over-generalizations can pave the way for equitable math lessons and why helping teachers build their math proficiency is key to fostering an inclusive classroom. Join us as we unravel the intricacies of these concepts and their real-world implications. Unlock the secrets to creating a safe and equitable math classroom by listening to the latest Make Math Moments episode now. Transform your approach to math education and contribute to fostering a positive and inclusive learning space for all students. Press play and embark on a journey to reshape math education today! You’ll Learn:  Gain insights into why creating a safe space in math class is not just desirable but essential for student success and well-being.Learn practical strategies to help teachers break free from over-generalizations, creating math lessons that cater to diverse learning needs and backgrounds.Discover the importance of teachers' math proficiency and how empowering educators in this aspect can lead to a more equitable and supportive learning environment. Resources:  Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units District Math Leaders:  How are you ensuring that you support those educators who need a nudge to spark a focus on growing their pedagogical-content knowledge?  What about opportunities for those who are eager and willing to elevate their practice, but do not have the support?  Book a call with our District Improvement Program Team to learn how we can not only help you craft, refine and implement your district math learning goals, but also provide all of the professional learning supports your educators need to grow at the speed of their learning.  Book a short conversation with our team now.  Take your random grouping to the next level with this printable cards. Mix and match different groupings on the fly. Grab your cards here --> https://makemathmoments.com/random/ 

Today we speak with Michael Finley, the academic dean for math and science at a K-12 independent school.  Michael's staff is questioning their work in building thinking classrooms and how it serves high achieving students.  Listen in as we brainstorm strategies to uncover micro moves and macro plans to build a classroom culture that allows a thinking classroom to emerge.   This is another Math Mentoring Moment episode where we chat with a teacher like you who is working through some problems of practice and together we brainstorm ways to overcome them.  You’ll Learn:  How to move quickly on a new initiative while ensuring all educators are coming along for the ride;Why facilitating a Thinking Classroom in mathematics effectively involves a significant amount of nuance;Why intentionality is even more important when facilitating a Thinking Classroom than it was when leading a gradual release of responsibility lesson;What is the true definition of rigor?  Resources:  Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units District Math Leaders:  How are you ensuring that you support those educators who need a nudge to spark a focus on growing their pedagogical-content knowledge?  What about opportunities for those who are eager and willing to elevate their practice, but do not have the support?  Book a call with our District Improvement Program Team to learn how we can not only help you craft, refine and implement your district math learning goals, but also provide all of the professional learning supports your educators need to grow at the speed of their learning.  Book a short conversation with our team now.  Take your random grouping to the next level with this printable cards. Mix and match different groupings on the fly. Grab your cards here --> https://makemathmoments.com/random/ 

Today we speak with Diana Worthen, a 10th grade math teacher from Denver Colorado. In our discussion we help to shake out a common pebble in an educator's shoes: How to keep students engaged during practice time. Stick around and you’ll hear why students tend to “shut down” after a teacher led lesson; how to be more targeted with your 1 on 1 support with your students; and how to structure your lessons to maximize engagement during your entire math block. This is another Math Mentoring Moment episode where we chat with a teacher like you who is working through some problems of practice and together we brainstorm ways to overcome them. You’ll Learn:  Why students tend to “shut down” after a teacher led lesson;How to be more targeted with your 1 on 1 support with your students; and, How to structure your lessons to maximize engagement during your entire math block.  Resources:  Episode #158: Don’t Ditch Your Lesson Model; Reverse It! – A Math Mentoring Moment EpisodeEpisode #141: The Transition From Gradual Release to Problem Based LearningMake Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units District Math Leaders:  How are you ensuring that you support those educators who need a nudge to spark a focus on growing their pedagogical-content knowledge?  What about opportunities for those who are eager and willing to elevate their practice, but do not have the support?  Book a call with our District Improvement Program Team to learn how we can not only help you craft, refine and implement your district math learning goals, but also provide all of the professional learning supports your educators need to grow at the speed of their learning.  Book a short conversation with our team now.  Take your random grouping to the next level with this printable cards. Mix and match different groupings on the fly. Grab your cards here --> https://makemathmoments.com/random/ 

Join us for an uplifting conversation with Mike Lipnos, a middle school teacher and math coach from Ohio. In this episode Mike shares his experience and insights on helping teachers build ownership and agency for students in their mathematics classrooms.  We discuss how some teacher moves ultimately shut the door on students seeking higher levels of mathematics, and how young people are thinking beings and are capable of doing high level thinking, even if a data point may say they are "low" and how having agency as a mathematician is going to be more impactful on humanizing mathematical experiences than the traditional “I do, we do, you do” model of math teaching. You’ll Learn:  How some approaches to teaching mathematics can ultimately shut the door on students to seeking out higher levels of mathematics;Once you see student strategies and developmental approaches, you can’t unsee them;Why we need to be intentional about positioning ourselves as a co-learner instead of the expert in math class; and,How to teach the practice standards through content and not vice versa. Resources:  Rethinking the gradual release model - An article from Tim McCaffrey. Mike Lipnos on X @mlipnos  Mike Lipnos Email: mikelipnos.kidscan@gmail.com Illustrative Mathematics District Math Leaders:  How are you ensuring that you support those educators who need a nudge to spark a focus on growing their pedagogical-content knowledge?  What about opportunities for those who are eager and willing to elevate their practice, but do not have the support?  Book a call with our District Improvement Program Team to learn how we can not only help you craft, refine and implement your district math learning goals, but also provide all of the professional learning supports your educators need to grow at the speed of their learning.  Book a short conversation with our team now.  Take your random grouping to the next level with this printable cards. Mix and match different groupings on the fly. Grab your cards here --> https://makemathmoments.com/random/ 

Join us in the latest episode as we dive into the world of mathematics education with Shayla Heavner, the visionary founder of MathBait™. With over a decade of experience and a prestigious Sarah D. Barder Fellowship Award for teaching excellence under her belt, Shayla has been on a mission to revolutionize math education. As a certified online teacher and master reviewer for Quality Matters, Shayla shares insights on the significance of quality, highly engaging material that is accessible to all students. She explores the power of storytelling as a versatile tool across all levels of math education, shedding light on how it can not only captivate students but also serve as a gateway to deeper conceptual exploration. You’ll Learn:  Why teaching for conceptual understanding first is critical to ensure students are empowered to reason and prove;Why storytelling is a powerful tool for all levels of mathematics education;Why there must be quality, Highly Engaging Material Accessible to ALL students;How can we use storytelling in an effective way to not only engage but lower the floor to dig into mathematics conceptually; Resources:  www.MathBait.com https://bit.ly/numberville https://www.facebook.com/mathbait https://www.instagram.com/mathbait/ https://twitter.com/MathBait  District Math Leaders:  How are you ensuring that you support those educators who need a nudge to spark a focus on growing their pedagogical-content knowledge?  What about opportunities for those who are eager and willing to elevate their practice, but do not have the support?  Book a call with our District Improvement Program Team to learn how we can not only help you craft, refine and implement your district math learning goals, but also provide all of the professional learning supports your educators need to grow at the speed of their learning.  Book a short conversation with our team now.  Take your random grouping to the next level with this printable cards. Mix and match different groupings on the fly. Grab your cards here --> https://makemathmoments.com/random/ 

In this where are they now mentoring moment episode we speak again with Adam Love; Adam joined us back on episode 120 when he was as first year teacher from Myrtle Beach South Carolina.  3 years later and a wealth of ideas, teaching strategies, and many lessons learned Adam is here to discuss how to help students show their thinking in multiple ways.  This is another Math Mentoring Moment episode where we chat with a teacher like you who is working through some problems of practice and together we brainstorm ways to overcome them.  You’ll Learn:  How do I help students use models and strategies over the algorithms? How do I keep students on task when I’m working in small groups?Why you need to be crystal clear with expectations around demonstrating understanding. Resources:  Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units District Math Leaders: How are you ensuring that you support those educators who need a nudge to spark a focus on growing their pedagogical-content knowledge? What about opportunities for those who are eager and willing to elevate their practice, but do not have the support? Book a call with our District Improvement Program Team to learn how we can not only help you craft, refine and implement your district math learning goals, but also provide all of the professional learning supports your educators need to grow at the speed of their learning. Book a short conversation with our team now.  Take your random grouping to the next level with this printable cards. Mix and match different groupings on the fly. Grab your cards here --> https://makemathmoments.com/random/ 

Get ready Math Moment Makers for a great “call” with Crystal Frommert, who will be sharing some great tips and strategies that we can put to use to promote productive conversations with parents - especially when the news isn’t necessarily positive.  We’ve all been there before: a student is experiencing struggles in our math class and the time has come where we must make that informative call to ensure parents are in the know. Let’s reframe how we look at conversations with parents by leveraging some of the ideas that Crystal shares in her book, When Calling Parents Isn’t Your Calling.  You’ll Learn:  Why the first conversation you have with parents is an opportunity to ensure they know you have their child’s best interests in mind;What language swaps should educators being using to create a welcoming vibe; How to communicate a student’s mathematical progress to a parent/caregiver with clarity, empathy, and hope. Resources:  Illustrative Mathematics https://twitter.com/mrs_frommert  https://www.CrystalFrommert.com   District Math Leaders:  How are you ensuring that you support those educators who need a nudge to spark a focus on growing their pedagogical-content knowledge? What about opportunities for those who are eager and willing to elevate their practice, but do not have the support? Book a call with our District Improvement Program Team to learn how we can not only help you craft, refine and implement your district math learning goals, but also provide all of the professional learning supports your educators need to grow at the speed of their learning. Book a short conversation with our team now.  Take your random grouping to the next level with this printable cards. Mix and match different groupings on the fly. Grab your cards here --> https://makemathmoments.com/random/