Modern Math Teacher- Teaching Strategies for High School and Middle School Math Teachers

Today, we’re tackling a topic that can truly transform your classroom—Project-Based Learning (PBL). If the idea of PBL feels daunting, don’t worry! In this episode, I’m breaking it down into simple, manageable steps so you can start incorporating PBL into your lessons without feeling overwhelmed.💡In This Episode, We’ll Cover:What PBL Really Is: A straightforward introduction to Project-Based Learning and why it’s more than just another teaching trend.Getting Started with PBL:Begin with a Mini-Project: How to introduce PBL with a small, manageable project, like using linear models to track growth or speed.Integrate PBL Elements: Tips on adding a PBL twist to your existing lessons without reinventing the wheel, like turning a lesson on systems of equations into a business planning project.Use Ready-Made Resources: How the Project Based Algebra Teachers membership can save you time with ready-to-go projects like “Save for Success,” where students plan their future careers.Why PBL Is Worth It:The benefits of PBL for both students and teachers, from boosting student engagement to making classroom management easier.How PBL encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration, all while lightening your planning load in the long run.Practical Tips for PBL Success:Aligning projects with your curriculum standards so PBL fits naturally into your teaching.Breaking down projects into manageable milestones with clear timelines to keep students on track.💻Resources Mentioned:Gold Standard Project PlannerPitch Profit ProjectProject Based Algebra Teachers MembershipLet’s talk. Send me a message with your email and I’ll get back to you!This podcast is a member of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Better Today. Better Tomorrow. And the Podcasts to Help You Get There.Connect with Kristen:Follow on Instagram @moorethanjustxJoin the Facebook Community: The Modern Math Teachers MovementMore About the Modern Math Teacher PodcastKristen Moore, classroom teacher and instructional coach at Moore Than Just X, empowers modern secondary math teachers to transform the student experience with the strategies and the confidence to implement project-based learning, mastery-based assessment, and student engagement strategies in their classrooms.Whether you're a math education newbie or a seasoned veteran, you'll find something new and inspiring in every episode. You’re already a listener, why not join the Movement inside ✨The Modern Math Teachers Movement Facebook group. Join the community of math teachers who are not afraid to shake things up and make math class the best part of the day for our students. So tune in each Tuesday, have some fun, and let's elevate our math teaching game together!*Amazon orders may provide a small affiliate payout at no extra cost to you. These payouts help keep the podcast free for all!

 Today we’re diving into a topic that’s near and dear to every math teacher’s heart—engaging students with real-world math applications. We’ve all heard the classic, “When am I ever going to need this?” question, and today, I’m here to give you the tools to answer that in a way that not only satisfies your students but also sparks their interest in math.In This Episode, We’ll Cover:Why Connecting Math to the Real World Matters: How real-world applications can transform even the most disengaged students into active learners.Resources to Support You: From free problem-solving tasks by Math Medic to AI tools like ChatGPT and Khanmigo, we’ll explore ways to quickly integrate real-world math into your lessons.Practical Examples: Easy-to-implement activities like “Budgeting for a Trip” and sports statistics analysis that bring math to life.Tips to Get Started: How to start small, connect to current events, and involve your students in the learning process.Resources Mentioned:Math MedicChatGPTKhanmigoProject Based Algebra Teachers Membership🎉 Special Offer: Founders pricing for the Project Based Algebra Teachers membership ends this Friday! Don’t miss out on locking in your access to a treasure trove of real-world math projects and activities.Let’s talk. Send me a message with your email and I’ll get back to you!This podcast is a member of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Better Today. Better Tomorrow. And the Podcasts to Help You Get There.Connect with Kristen:Follow on Instagram @moorethanjustxJoin the Facebook Community: The Modern Math Teachers MovementMore About the Modern Math Teacher PodcastKristen Moore, classroom teacher and instructional coach at Moore Than Just X, empowers modern secondary math teachers to transform the student experience with the strategies and the confidence to implement project-based learning, mastery-based assessment, and student engagement strategies in their classrooms.Whether you're a math education newbie or a seasoned veteran, you'll find something new and inspiring in every episode. You’re already a listener, why not join the Movement inside ✨The Modern Math Teachers Movement Facebook group. Join the community of math teachers who are not afraid to shake things up and make math class the best part of the day for our students. So tune in each Tuesday, have some fun, and let's elevate our math teaching game together!*Amazon orders may provide a small affiliate payout at no extra cost to you. These payouts help keep the podcast free for all!

 In today’s episode, Kristen Moore breaks down the essentials of creating a positive classroom culture. From setting clear expectations to co-creating norms and establishing a social contract, this episode is packed with tips to help you foster a supportive, respectful, and collaborative environment in your classroom.🔑 Key Topics Covered:Setting and sharing your classroom non-negotiables.Co-creating class norms for increased student ownership.The power of a social contract in building a strong classroom community.Practical strategies for keeping norms alive all year.Resources to help you implement these ideas in your classroom.📚 Resources Mentioned:Capturing Kids HeartsClass + Social Contract Activity + PostersWhole Class Behavior Management Bundle💬 Join the Conversation: What are your go-to strategies for building a positive classroom culture? Share your thoughts in the comments below or join our Facebook group, The Modern Math Teachers.Let’s talk. Send me a message with your email and I’ll get back to you!This podcast is a member of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Better Today. Better Tomorrow. And the Podcasts to Help You Get There.Connect with Kristen:Follow on Instagram @moorethanjustxJoin the Facebook Community: The Modern Math Teachers MovementMore About the Modern Math Teacher PodcastKristen Moore, classroom teacher and instructional coach at Moore Than Just X, empowers modern secondary math teachers to transform the student experience with the strategies and the confidence to implement project-based learning, mastery-based assessment, and student engagement strategies in their classrooms.Whether you're a math education newbie or a seasoned veteran, you'll find something new and inspiring in every episode. You’re already a listener, why not join the Movement inside ✨The Modern Math Teachers Movement Facebook group. Join the community of math teachers who are not afraid to shake things up and make math class the best part of the day for our students. So tune in each Tuesday, have some fun, and let's elevate our math teaching game together!*Amazon orders may provide a small affiliate payout at no extra cost to you. These payouts help keep the podcast free for all!

In this episode, we continue our back-to-school series with a focus on effective classroom management strategies. We’ll explore how to set up clear classroom rules, routines, and procedures to ensure a productive and positive learning environment. Drawing insights from renowned educators Harry Wong and Angela Watson, we delve into must-have routines that will help you start your school year on the right foot.Today's Topics:Classroom Management Overview:Importance of clear classroom rules, routines, and proceduresInsights from Harry Wong and Angela WatsonMust-Have Routines:Beginning  + Ending Class Routines:Greeting students and entry routineVisual flow and daily agendaExit routinesMiddle of Class Routines: Routines for Group Work and a Thinking Classroom:Group work expectationsProblem-solving routinesVNPS routinesHandling Technology Responsibly:Phone pockets vs. out-of-sight approachTechnology trades and phone charging bankRelated Resources:Harry Wong’s The First Days of SchoolAngela Watson’s 40 Hour Teacher WorkweekEdTomorrow’s First 5Peter Liljedahl’s Building Thinking ClassroomsLet’s talk. Send me a message with your email and I’ll get back to you!This podcast is a member of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Better Today. Better Tomorrow. And the Podcasts to Help You Get There.Connect with Kristen:Follow on Instagram @moorethanjustxJoin the Facebook Community: The Modern Math Teachers MovementMore About the Modern Math Teacher PodcastKristen Moore, classroom teacher and instructional coach at Moore Than Just X, empowers modern secondary math teachers to transform the student experience with the strategies and the confidence to implement project-based learning, mastery-based assessment, and student engagement strategies in their classrooms.Whether you're a math education newbie or a seasoned veteran, you'll find something new and inspiring in every episode. You’re already a listener, why not join the Movement inside ✨The Modern Math Teachers Movement Facebook group. Join the community of math teachers who are not afraid to shake things up and make math class the best part of the day for our students. So tune in each Tuesday, have some fun, and let's elevate our math teaching game together!*Amazon orders may provide a small affiliate payout at no extra cost to you. These payouts help keep the podcast free for all!

In today’s episode, we’re breaking down the essential strategies you need to set your students up for success during the first week of school. From setting clear expectations and practicing routines to easing into math content with low-floor tasks, we’ve got you covered.I’ll share actionable tips for how to make the most of those crucial first days, including what I’m doing in my classroom to build a positive, math-focused environment. Whether you’re looking for new ideas or just want to refine your approach, this episode is packed with insights to help you start the school year strong.🔑 Key Takeaways:How to set clear expectations without overwhelming your students.Engaging ways to practice classroom routines while building connections.The importance of starting math content with low-floor tasks that set a positive tone.A peek into my own first-week plans to inspire your classroom strategy.Resources:Ostrich Llama Problem👉 Join the Conversation: Share your favorite first-week activities and ideas in the comments, or connect with us in The Modern Math Teachers Facebook group!🎧 Listen to more episodes: Stay tuned for more back-to-school tips and strategies all throughout August!Let’s talk. Send me a message with your email and I’ll get back to you!This podcast is a member of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Better Today. Better Tomorrow. And the Podcasts to Help You Get There.Connect with Kristen:Follow on Instagram @moorethanjustxJoin the Facebook Community: The Modern Math Teachers MovementMore About the Modern Math Teacher PodcastKristen Moore, classroom teacher and instructional coach at Moore Than Just X, empowers modern secondary math teachers to transform the student experience with the strategies and the confidence to implement project-based learning, mastery-based assessment, and student engagement strategies in their classrooms.Whether you're a math education newbie or a seasoned veteran, you'll find something new and inspiring in every episode. You’re already a listener, why not join the Movement inside ✨The Modern Math Teachers Movement Facebook group. Join the community of math teachers who are not afraid to shake things up and make math class the best part of the day for our students. So tune in each Tuesday, have some fun, and let's elevate our math teaching game together!*Amazon orders may provide a small affiliate payout at no extra cost to you. These payouts help keep the podcast free for all!

In this week's episode, we kick off our back-to-school series by focusing on setting up your classroom for success. Join Kristen Moore as she shares essential tips on organizing your teacher workspace, arranging student desks, and creating an engaging overall classroom feel. Whether you're a seasoned educator or a new teacher, these practical tips will help you create a productive and welcoming math classroom.Today’s Topics:Teacher Workspace: Discover how to keep your desk organized and clutter-free using practical storage solutions and digital tools. Learn about the Teacher Friday Workbox from Organize 365 and its benefits.Student Workspace: Explore different desk arrangements to enhance student interaction and learning. Tips on organizing student supplies and creating designated turn-in areas.Overall Classroom Feel: Learn how to create a calm and focused classroom environment using a cohesive color scheme, flexible furniture arrangements, and effective lighting and music. Get inspired with our classroom decor bundles available on TpT.Links Mentioned:Classroom Decor Bundle- BrightsClassroom Decor Bundle- PastelsClassroom Decor Bundle- Neutral + Earth TonesClassroom Decor Bundle- Jewel TonesLet’s talk. Send me a message with your email and I’ll get back to you!This podcast is a member of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Better Today. Better Tomorrow. And the Podcasts to Help You Get There.Connect with Kristen:Follow on Instagram @moorethanjustxJoin the Facebook Community: The Modern Math Teachers MovementMore About the Modern Math Teacher PodcastKristen Moore, classroom teacher and instructional coach at Moore Than Just X, empowers modern secondary math teachers to transform the student experience with the strategies and the confidence to implement project-based learning, mastery-based assessment, and student engagement strategies in their classrooms.Whether you're a math education newbie or a seasoned veteran, you'll find something new and inspiring in every episode. You’re already a listener, why not join the Movement inside ✨The Modern Math Teachers Movement Facebook group. Join the community of math teachers who are not afraid to shake things up and make math class the best part of the day for our students. So tune in each Tuesday, have some fun, and let's elevate our math teaching game together!*Amazon orders may provide a small affiliate payout at no extra cost to you. These payouts help keep the podcast free for all!

Discover how a consistent class structure can transform your teaching and reduce student anxiety.Welcome to another episode of The Modern Math Teacher podcast! In today's episode, Kristen Moore dives into the importance of consistency in classroom cadence and how it can transform your teaching and benefit your students.Today's Topics:Why establishing a routine is crucial for maintaining expectations and reducing student anxiety.How a predictable classroom structure can create a safe and secure learning environment.Sample cadences for both 50-minute and 80-minute class periods, including entry routines, active problem-solving tasks, mini-lessons, in-class practice opportunities, and exit tickets.Sample Classroom Cadences Covered:50-Minute Class Period:Entry Routine/Warm-Up (5 minutes)Active Problem Solving or Thinking Task (15 minutes)Mini Lesson/Consolidation/Notes (10 minutes)In-Class Practice Opportunities (15 minutes)Exit Ticket/End of Class Routine (5 minutes)80-Minute Class Period:Entry Routine/Warm-Up (10 minutes)Active Problem Solving or Thinking Task (20 minutes)Mini Lesson/Consolidation/Notes (15 minutes)In-Class Practice Opportunities (25 minutes)Exit Ticket/End of Class Routine (10 minutes)Resources Mentioned:EdTomorrow’s First FiveLet’s talk. Send me a message with your email and I’ll get back to you!This podcast is a member of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Better Today. Better Tomorrow. And the Podcasts to Help You Get There.Connect with Kristen:Follow on Instagram @moorethanjustxJoin the Facebook Community: The Modern Math Teachers MovementMore About the Modern Math Teacher PodcastKristen Moore, classroom teacher and instructional coach at Moore Than Just X, empowers modern secondary math teachers to transform the student experience with the strategies and the confidence to implement project-based learning, mastery-based assessment, and student engagement strategies in their classrooms.Whether you're a math education newbie or a seasoned veteran, you'll find something new and inspiring in every episode. You’re already a listener, why not join the Movement inside ✨The Modern Math Teachers Movement Facebook group. Join the community of math teachers who are not afraid to shake things up and make math class the best part of the day for our students. So tune in each Tuesday, have some fun, and let's elevate our math teaching game together!*Amazon orders may provide a small affiliate payout at no extra cost to you. These payouts help keep the podcast free for all!

Don’t let overwhelm stop you from integrating new innovative and effective teaching practices in your math classroom. In this episode, we're tackling the challenge of "fitting it all in" when it comes to integrating various effective teaching practices in your classroom. We understand that it can be overwhelming to incorporate new methods, but we're here to help you find balance without overloading yourself or your students.Today’s Topics:Blended Instruction and Mastery-Based Assessment:Integrating these approaches with other instructional methods for personalized, flexible learning.Thinking Classroom Tasks and Project-Based Learning:How thinking classroom tasks foster critical thinking and inquiry.The comprehensive nature of project-based learning units and their embedded inquiry opportunities. Combining Methods:Using blended instruction and mastery-based assessment with thinking classroom tasks.Enhancing project-based learning with digital tools and mastery assessment.Balancing Act:Tips for integrating these effective practices gradually.Ensuring your lessons remain dynamic and engaging.🎧 Related Episodes:Episode 41: The Best of Both Worlds- Modern Thinking ClassroomsEpisode 42: The Best of Both Worlds- Modern Project-Based ClassroomsRemember, it's all about finding the right balance and pacing yourself. Gradually integrate these practices, and watch your classroom transform into a vibrant, engaging learning environment.Let’s talk. Send me a message with your email and I’ll get back to you!This podcast is a member of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Better Today. Better Tomorrow. And the Podcasts to Help You Get There.Connect with Kristen:Follow on Instagram @moorethanjustxJoin the Facebook Community: The Modern Math Teachers MovementMore About the Modern Math Teacher PodcastKristen Moore, classroom teacher and instructional coach at Moore Than Just X, empowers modern secondary math teachers to transform the student experience with the strategies and the confidence to implement project-based learning, mastery-based assessment, and student engagement strategies in their classrooms.Whether you're a math education newbie or a seasoned veteran, you'll find something new and inspiring in every episode. You’re already a listener, why not join the Movement inside ✨The Modern Math Teachers Movement Facebook group. Join the community of math teachers who are not afraid to shake things up and make math class the best part of the day for our students. So tune in each Tuesday, have some fun, and let's elevate our math teaching game together!*Amazon orders may provide a small affiliate payout at no extra cost to you. These payouts help keep the podcast free for all!

Welcome back to Poolside PD! Today, we’re diving into Project-Based Learning (PBL) in middle and high school math classes, discussing key elements, challenges, and practical tips. PBL can make math engaging and meaningful by connecting it to real-world problems. Grab your favorite summer drink, sit back, and let's get started!Today's TopicsOverview of Project-Based Learning:Definition and importance of PBL.Making math concepts tangible and relevant through real-world problems.Key Elements of Effective PBL:Authentic Problems: Connect to real-world issues.Student Voice and Choice: Foster ownership and motivation.In-depth Inquiry: Encourage research and application.Sustained Inquiry: Allow for deep exploration and revisions.Challenges and Solutions:Time Management: Start with small-scale projects.Assessment: Use rubrics focusing on process and product.Balancing Standards and Creativity: Align projects with curriculum standards.Practical Tips and Strategies:Start SmallCollaborate with Colleagues:Resources and Related Materials📚Books:Setting the Standard for Project Based LearningProject Based Teaching How to Create rigorous and engaging learning experiences 👩🏻‍💻Websites and Online Communities:Projectbasedmathclass.com -- access to all my PBL Trainings🎧Related EpisodesPBL Podcast PlaylistLet’s talk. Send me a message with your email and I’ll get back to you!This podcast is a member of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Better Today. Better Tomorrow. And the Podcasts to Help You Get There.Connect with Kristen:Follow on Instagram @moorethanjustxJoin the Facebook Community: The Modern Math Teachers MovementMore About the Modern Math Teacher PodcastKristen Moore, classroom teacher and instructional coach at Moore Than Just X, empowers modern secondary math teachers to transform the student experience with the strategies and the confidence to implement project-based learning, mastery-based assessment, and student engagement strategies in their classrooms.Whether you're a math education newbie or a seasoned veteran, you'll find something new and inspiring in every episode. You’re already a listener, why not join the Movement inside ✨The Modern Math Teachers Movement Facebook group. Join the community of math teachers who are not afraid to shake things up and make math class the best part of the day for our students. So tune in each Tuesday, have some fun, and let's elevate our math teaching game together!*Amazon orders may provide a small affiliate payout at no extra cost to you. These payouts help keep the podcast free for all!

Join us this week as we dive in to the history and power of Problem Solving. Look before the Building Thinking Classrooms book took the math world by storm, other educational experts were leading the way with problem solving and the power of teaching through problems. It's time to uncover the history and power of problem solving in math educationToday's TopicsProblem Solving and Problem Based Learning DefinedTeaching Problems and the Problems of TeachingPowerful Problem Solving ActivitiesBenefits of Problem SolvingRelated Resources on Amazon*Max Ray’s Powerful Problem SolvingMagdalene Lampert: Teaching Problems and the Problems of TeachingPeter Liljedahl’s Building Thinking ClassroomsLet’s talk. Send me a message with your email and I’ll get back to you!This podcast is a member of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Better Today. Better Tomorrow. And the Podcasts to Help You Get There.Connect with Kristen:Follow on Instagram @moorethanjustxJoin the Facebook Community: The Modern Math Teachers MovementMore About the Modern Math Teacher PodcastKristen Moore, classroom teacher and instructional coach at Moore Than Just X, empowers modern secondary math teachers to transform the student experience with the strategies and the confidence to implement project-based learning, mastery-based assessment, and student engagement strategies in their classrooms.Whether you're a math education newbie or a seasoned veteran, you'll find something new and inspiring in every episode. You’re already a listener, why not join the Movement inside ✨The Modern Math Teachers Movement Facebook group. Join the community of math teachers who are not afraid to shake things up and make math class the best part of the day for our students. So tune in each Tuesday, have some fun, and let's elevate our math teaching game together!*Amazon orders may provide a small affiliate payout at no extra cost to you. These payouts help keep the podcast free for all!