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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.

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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

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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