How To Coach Math Teachers Through Questioning: A Math Mentoring Moment

As a math coach, how do you get teachers to open up to you so you can best serve them? What purposeful questions can you put in your “back pocket” to keep the coaching alive instead of just turning the session into “show and tell” ? 

Listen in to this episode as we chat with first year math coach Connor Wagner from Pittsburg. Connor has had great success as a classroom teacher and coach, but sometimes struggles with how to keep the teacher reflecting and holding back on advice giving.

You’ll Learn: 

• How to utilize and tweak techniques like the "Pebble in Your Shoe" to identify subtle yet significant challenges in teaching practices. This strategy prompts reflective thinking and continuous improvement among teachers.
• Insights into the critical role of listening and asking open-ended questions in coaching. Improving these skills can lead to better support and deeper insights into the needs and successes of teachers.
• How to apply the "Magic Wand" approach for practical goal setting. This method emphasizes identifying small, actionable changes that can lead to significant improvements in the classroom.
• A variety of prompts and questions to keep the coaching alive and not rush to answer giving. 

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.


Resources: 

• Crafting Mentoring Moments: Episode 204 with Jim Strachan
• The Coaching Habit [Book]
• Assessment For Growth: A Blueprint Course For Standards Based Grading in Math Class
• 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. 

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Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don’t want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode #139: "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.