Math is Figure-Out-Able!

Pam and Kim dive into the engaging 'I Have, You Need' instructional routine. Discover the magic of number partners like 10, 100, and 1000 and their everyday applications. You’ll hear how this routine transforms math learning and empowers students to conquer tricky subtraction problems. They tackle the concept of being a 'mathy person' and share tips to boost reasoning skills. Plus, there's a useful guide for implementing this fun and interactive activity with friends, colleagues, and learners!

In this enlightening discussion, Pam, an expert in mathematical reasoning, sheds light on Functional Reasoning and its crucial role in helping students grasp complex patterns. She connects it to Proportional Reasoning, explaining concepts like slope and transformations in a relatable way. Kim effectively keeps the conversation grounded, ensuring clarity. Together, they explore how understanding these relationships not only enhances numeracy but empowers students to visualize and analyze mathematical concepts in real-world scenarios.

This episode is so important! Pam and Kim describe the Development of Mathematical Reasoning, and how it transforms our understanding of what it means to learn and teach mathematics. They discuss how freeing it feels to know that everyone can develop their reasoning, and how the Development of Mathematical Reasoning empowers teachers to know how best to help their students. Stay tuned to the end for the big announcement!Talking Points:What is The Development of Mathematical Reasoning and the different kinds of reasoning?We don't need calculators, we need reasonersAre we stuck where we are or can we develop more sophisticated reasoning?Use the free download How Do You Reason guide to know how you, your friends, and students are reasoning.Announcing the new Development of Mathematical Reasoning Workshop!  See episode 61 for more about tools to help students develop reasoningClick here: A new free online workshop. So exciting! Be sure to tell all your colleagues about this amazing opportunity to learn how to help anyone develop reasoning. 

Janie Schielack, an early influencer in math education, joins Kim as they discuss transformative figures in the field. They delve into the impact of foundational practices and how minor teaching tweaks can enhance student engagement. The conversation humorously reflects on mispronounced names at a training event and highlights the revolution brought by graphing calculators. Technology, especially Desmos, is emphasized as a game changer in math education, fostering collaborative learning and innovation in both classroom and remote settings.

Delve into the essence of doing math and its deep connection to understanding rather than rote memorization. Explore the intriguing distinction between 'real math' that fosters genuine reasoning and 'fake math' focused on isolated facts. Discover the unique nature of a mathematician's work and the importance of mentorship in nurturing problem-solving skills among students. The episode sheds light on how mentorship can guide budding mathematicians through the creative and intricate processes of mathematical thinking.

Discover how understanding relationships between numbers can transform math learning. The hosts emphasize that real math isn't about rigid algorithms but about strategies that fit students’ thinking. They explore the 'over strategy' for addition and share insights on fostering number sense. Innovative teaching methods take center stage, highlighting the shift from rote procedures to comprehension. Personal anecdotes illustrate the power of adaptive instruction, showing how listening to students can enhance their mathematical journey.

In this debut podcast, mathematics teacher educator Pam Harris talks with her cohost, Kim Montague, about how they met and the work that they do together now. They set the stage that in this podcast they will talk about Real Mathematics and about how to teach mathematics. They answer the question, "If not algorithms, then what?"