3 Act Math Tasks Aren’t Working

Maybe you’ve recently come across the idea of a Dan Meyer-style 3 Act Math Task and you’re intrigued to give one a shot with hopes to engage your students and help better understand the mathematics you’re teaching. Or, maybe you’ve used 3 Act Math Tasks and use them as a regular routine in your mathematics program. 

While there are many mathematics teachers out there who love a great 3 Act Math Task, the reality is that there are many more educators out there who have given one a shot and decided to move on and not look back. What gives?

In this episode, Kyle and Jon discuss why many math teachers leveraging 3 Act Math Tasks in their mathematics programs do not observe an actual increase in student achievement when compared to their pre-3 Act Math Task days.

Stick around and you’ll learn how to strengthen how you utilize your classroom resources so that students will flourish. 

In today’s episode, we’ll be digging into the “leaves” which are one (1) of the six (6) areas of every strong mathematics program. 

You’ll Learn: 

• Why 3 act math tasks haven’t been working (for you);
• What you need to consider when evaluating resources you find online and at conferences;
• What changes can you make to your lessons and resources to see improved engagement and deep learning with your students; and, 
• Where you can find lessons, units, activities that compliment the values you have for your math classroom. 

Resources: 

Explore over 60+ Math Classroom Units on Make Math Moments  

Learn how to run a 3 Act Math Task Effectively

R2D2 Sticky Notes 3 Act Math Task

Math Is Visual Number Talk Prompts

Take the Make Math Moments Math Program Assessment Tool [Classroom Teacher & Leader Versions]

Get a 6-Step Plan For Growing Your Math Classroom by joining the Make Math Moments Academy Free for 30 Days

District Leader Resources:

Take the Make Math Moments Math Program Assessment Tool

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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.