In this solo episode of MathsTalk, Leanne McMahon explores how to use Textbooks creatively in Years 7 and 8, where students are moving from primary habits into more abstract secondary mathematics. The episode focuses on building precise mathematical language, identifying common transition misconceptions, using textbook exercises for concept development rather than simple practice, and structuring mixed-ability lessons around the same core task so all students can engage with the same important mathematics. It also argues for the central role of conceptual understanding in a book-based curriculum, and for teachers being deeply familiar with the curriculum so they can adapt, extend and refine tasks with confidence.

Resources mentioned in the episode include:

• Texas Instruments Australia for teacher resources and professional learning (https://education.ti.com/en-au/teachers?category=professional-development )

• AMSI ICE-EM textbooks will be published by Cambridge later in the year https://schools.amsi.org.au/ice-em-mathematics-textbooks/

• NRICH for rich tasks and problem-solving https://nrich.maths.org/

• Compression https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZMmaiaZZeW0

• youcubed for open and creative classroom tasks https://www.youcubed.org/

• GeoGebra for interactive visual exploration https://www.geogebra.org/

• Open Middle for challenging problems that unlock student thinking (Open Middle® |)

• Illustrative Mathematics for problem-based middle years mathematics and collaborative reasoning routines (Illustrative Mathematics K–12 Math)

• University of Melbourne’s decimal misconceptions site for insight into common misconceptions about decimal numbers (extranet.education.unimelb.edu.au)

What's in store for the remainder of 2026? A plethora of exciting and engaging podcasts for you mathematical pleasure. Contact us for more ideas:

mathstalk@amsi.org.au

In this episode of MathsTalk, Leanne McMahon is joined by mathematics educator Nadia Abdelal to explore the role of calculators in Years 7–8. This re-released episode tackles a question many schools still debate: when do calculators support learning, and when do they risk getting in the way?

Leanne and Nadia discuss how calculators can reduce cognitive load, improve access to new concepts, and support students who are still building number sense.

They also highlight the importance of intervention, estimation, and equity — reminding us that calculators can help students engage in richer mathematical thinking, but should sit alongside strong teaching of foundational skills.

Relevant links

• MathsTalk podcast: https://calculate.org.au/mathstalk-podcast/

• Texas Instruments Australia: https://education.ti.com/en-au/teachers?category=professional-development

• AMSI maths careers: https://careers.amsi.org.au/

• AMSI Industry Day resources: https://amsi.org.au/amsi-industry-day-for-teachers/