Episodes

  • Ep 70: Using the Election in Math Class: Engage Students with Real-World Data
    Oct 22 2024

    Let’s talk. Send me a text message!

    In this episode of The Modern Math Teacher, we’re talking about how you can make math relevant and exciting by integrating election data into your algebra lessons. With the upcoming 2024 election, there’s no better time to show students how mathematical concepts can be used to analyze voter turnout trends and make predictions. I’ll walk you through the Election 2024 Math Project—a project-based learning experience that gets students working with real data, calculating statistics, and modeling outcomes. By the end of this episode, you’ll have the tools and strategies to engage your students in critical thinking about the math behind elections, all while hitting key Common Core standards.

    Key Takeaways:

    • Why Election Data Matters in Math Class: Learn how incorporating election data into your lessons makes math relevant and cross-curricular.
    • Using Statistics to Explore Voter Turnout: Explore how students can calculate voter turnout trends by age group and other demographics, using mean, median, standard deviation, and more.
    • Modeling Data for Future Predictions: Discover how students can use real data to predict future election outcomes using normal distribution and other algebraic concepts.
    • Ready-to-Use Resources: Learn about the student handouts, step-by-step instructions, and data analysis tools included in the Election 2024 Math Project.
    • Tech Tools to Support the Project: Tips on using Google Sheets, Desmos, and other tools to help students model and visualize their data.

    Resources Mentioned:

    • 🇺🇸Election 2024 Math Project (available two ways!)
      • Inside the Membership: projectbasedmathclass.com or
      • At TpT Election 2024 Project
    • Google Sheets
    • Desmos

    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 @moorethanjustx
    • Join the Facebook Community: The Modern Math Teachers Movement


    More About the Modern Math Teacher Podcast

    Kristen 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!


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    9 mins
  • Episode #69: Controversial Conversations with Julianna Tapper
    Oct 15 2024

    Let’s talk. Send me a text message!

    In this exciting episode of The Modern Math Teacher, we dive into some of the most debated topics in math education with Juliana Tapper, author of the upcoming book Teaching 6-12 Math Intervention. Juliana shares her insights on when direct instruction is not just effective—but essential--yup you heard that right!—for struggling students. We also tackle the controversial practice of cold calling, how it can actually boost engagement, and why it’s misunderstood in today’s classrooms.

    🔑Key Topics Covered:

    • When Direct Instruction Works Best: Find out why it’s sometimes the most effective strategy, especially in intervention settings.
    • Cold Calling: Breaking the stigma and discussing how this strategy can empower students rather than scare them.
    • Engaging Struggling Students: Proven strategies from Julianna’s and my experiences that bring disengaged learners back into the fold.
    • Juliana’s New Book 📕: A sneak peek into Teaching 6-12 Math Intervention: A Practical Framework to Engage Students who Struggle and what educators can expect.

    ⭐️Top Take Aways:

    • Discover actionable tips on balancing direct instruction with more open-ended approaches.
    • Learn how to effectively use cold calling in a supportive and engaging way.
    • Strategies for helping students who feel “left behind” regain confidence in math.

    Resources Mentioned:

    • 📕Juliana's New book: Teaching 6-12 Math Intervention (Available for pre-order now!)
    • Math Wars – A gamified approach to direct instruction by Julianna Tapper

    Connect with Julianna:

    • Website:CollaboratED Consulting
    • Instagram: @collaborated.with.juliana
    • Book Preorder: www.gatebreakerbook.com


    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 @moorethanjustx
    • Join the Facebook Community: The Modern Math Teachers Movement


    More About the Modern Math Teacher Podcast

    Kristen 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!


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    37 mins
  • Ep 68: Rock your Parent Teacher Conferences + Open House
    Oct 8 2024

    Let’s talk. Send me a text message!

    Are you ready to make the most of parent-teacher conferences and open house this fall? 🍁 In this episode of The Modern Math Teacher, I’m sharing my top tips to help you feel prepared and confident!

    🔑 Learn how to use a pre-conference reflection form to keep conferences focused and meaningful (you can grab it for free in this week’s email!). I’ll also share strategies for explaining the value of project-based learning and real-world math to parents, so they understand how your teaching methods help their child build essential life skills. Plus, we’ll talk about how to make your open house a success with project showcases, visuals, and helpful takeaways for parents. 🎒

    👉 Subscribe to the weekly email for the free pre-conference check-in form: MooreThanJustX.com/subscribe

    🎧 Tune in to learn:

    • How to streamline conferences with a pre-conference reflection form
    • Ways to communicate the value of PBL and real-world math to parents
    • Tips for presenting your best at open house, from student work displays to parent handouts

    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 @moorethanjustx
    • Join the Facebook Community: The Modern Math Teachers Movement


    More About the Modern Math Teacher Podcast

    Kristen 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!


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    10 mins
  • Ep 67: Cultivating a Growth Mindset
    Oct 1 2024

    Let’s talk. Send me a text message!

    Are you ready to foster a growth mindset in your math classroom? 🎯 In this episode, we break down Jo Boaler’s top strategies for encouraging students to embrace challenges, learn from mistakes, and develop effective problem-solving skills. 🧠✨

    What you'll learn:

    • The true meaning of a growth mindset (and common misconceptions)
    • How to normalize mistakes and make challenges exciting
    • Practical classroom strategies like "low floor, high ceiling" tasks and process-focused praise
    • Tips for promoting mathematical discussions and deeper thinking 💬💡

    Don’t miss out on these game-changing strategies that can transform your math instruction! 🙌 Plus, get access to free resources and tasks that will help you start today. 📝

    Resources Mentioned:

    • Jo Boaler’s book Mathematical Mindsets
    • Free classroom tasks from Jo Boaler’s website: Youcubed.org

    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 @moorethanjustx
    • Join the Facebook Community: The Modern Math Teachers Movement


    More About the Modern Math Teacher Podcast

    Kristen 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!


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    13 mins
  • Ep 66: Integrating the 8 Math Practices
    Sep 24 2024

    Let’s talk. Send me a text message!

    Welcome to The Modern Math Teacher! In today’s episode, we’re breaking down how to bring the 8 Mathematical Practices into your everyday math lessons. These practices are the key to helping students think like mathematicians, and we’ve got practical tips to make them a seamless part of your instruction.

    In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

    • A quick review of all 8 Mathematical Practices and their purpose.
    • How to integrate these practices with simple, everyday strategies like open-ended problems and real-world modeling.
    • Ways to encourage precision, strategic tool use, and mathematical discourse in your classroom.

    Resources Mentioned:

    • 8 Math Practices Posters Resource: Download this printable to display in your classroom and help students engage with these key practices!

    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 @moorethanjustx
    • Join the Facebook Community: The Modern Math Teachers Movement


    More About the Modern Math Teacher Podcast

    Kristen 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!


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    14 mins
  • Ep 65: Get them Talking! Boosting Student Engagement with Discourse
    Sep 17 2024

    Let’s talk. Send me a text message!

    In today’s episode, we’re diving into a powerful strategy for increasing student engagement: mathematical discourse. If you’ve ever struggled to get your students talking about math, this episode is for you! I’ll be sharing practical tips on how to use the 5 Practices for Orchestrating Productive Mathematical Discussions to encourage deeper understanding and active participation in your classroom.

    💡In This Episode, We’ll Cover:

    • The Power of Math Discourse: Why fostering student conversations about math is essential for their learning and engagement.
    • The 5 Practices:
      • Anticipating: How to predict student responses before the lesson begins to guide your planning.
      • Monitoring: Techniques for observing and supporting student thinking during the lesson.
      • Selecting: Strategies for choosing which student responses to highlight to enrich the class discussion.
      • Sequencing: How to order student work presentations to maximize learning.
      • Connecting: Methods for tying together different student strategies to emphasize key concepts.
    • Implementing the Practices: Step-by-step advice on how to start small with these practices and gradually build them into your teaching routine.
    • Overcoming Challenges: Solutions for common obstacles, like reluctant participation and managing time effectively during discussions.

    Why Math Discourse Matters:

    • How structured discussions can boost critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration among your students.
    • Tips for creating a classroom environment where every student feels comfortable sharing their thoughts and ideas.

    📙Resources Mentioned:

    • 5 Practices for Orchestrating Productive Mathematical Discussions by Margaret Smith and Mary Kay Stein

    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 @moorethanjustx
    • Join the Facebook Community: The Modern Math Teachers Movement


    More About the Modern Math Teacher Podcast

    Kristen 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!


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    11 mins
  • Ep 64: Project Based Learning without the Overwhelm
    Sep 10 2024

    Let’s talk. Send me a text message!

    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 Planner
    • Pitch Profit Project
    • Project Based Algebra Teachers Membership

    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 @moorethanjustx
    • Join the Facebook Community: The Modern Math Teachers Movement


    More About the Modern Math Teacher Podcast

    Kristen 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!


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    12 mins
  • Ep 63: Engaging Students with Real World Math Applications
    Sep 3 2024

    Let’s talk. Send me a text message!

    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 Medic
    • ChatGPT
    • Khanmigo
    • Project 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.


    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 @moorethanjustx
    • Join the Facebook Community: The Modern Math Teachers Movement


    More About the Modern Math Teacher Podcast

    Kristen 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!


    Show More Show Less
    11 mins