What great math teaching looks like - even if you're just getting started

156: What Great Math Teaching Looks Like – Even If You’re Just Getting Started
156: What Great Math Teaching Looks Like – Even If You’re Just Getting Started

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Wondering If You’re “Good Enough” to Teach Math This Way?

You’re not alone—and you’re more ready than you think.
In this episode, Mona speaks to every teacher who’s ever wondered if they’re “math person” enough to lead rich, student-centered instruction. She unpacks the myths about great math teaching and offers a fresh, empowering perspective: it’s not about perfection—it’s about creating space for student thinking. (2 min read)


🔍 WHAT: What Actually Makes Great Math Teaching

Hint: It’s not having all the answers—it’s creating space for student problem-solving.
Great math teaching isn’t about solving every problem yourself or running a Pinterest-perfect lesson. It’s about giving students a complex, accessible problem and guiding them as they make sense of it. Mona shares how you can shift from expert to facilitator—and how that shift unlocks deeper learning. (3 min read)


💡 WHY: Why This Approach Works (And Why It’s Worth It)

Deep learning doesn’t come from memorization—it comes from thinking.
Research shows that students learn best when they grapple with ideas, explain their reasoning, and connect concepts on their own terms. You don’t need a math degree to support this kind of learning—you need routines, trust, and the courage to try. Mona shares why your existing strengths are already the foundation of great math teaching. (4 min read)


✨ HOW: You Don’t Need to Be an Expert—Just Brave Enough to Begin

You’ve already shown up. Now it’s time to believe in your impact.
If you’ve ever stayed curious, asked “How did you get that?” or wondered if there’s a better way to teach—guess what? You’re already doing the work. Mona encourages you to see your willingness to grow as your superpower. Great math teaching isn’t about expertise—it’s about purpose. (3 min read)


great math teaching does not mean having a Pinterest perfect lesson

✅ CHECKLIST: Signs You’re Already On the Path

Not sure if you’re ready? Let’s see…
If you’ve ever celebrated a student’s strategy, questioned your pacing to go deeper, or felt frustrated when your curriculum skipped the thinking—this checklist will feel like a warm hug. These are your signs that you’re already doing what great math teachers do. (3 min read)


🎉 Ready to Go Deeper? Word Problem Workshop Teacher Training Is Open!

Want support in building your student-centered math routine?
Enrollment is now open for the Word Problem Workshop Teacher Training—a step-by-step course that gives you everything you need to bring this kind of math teaching to life. With classroom footage, planning tools, and printable resources, you’ll go from wondering if you can to watching it work.
👉 Enroll now at monamath.com/wpwteacher (1 min read)


🎧 Tune In, Take Action, and Teach Boldly

Listen to the full episode to hear Mona’s reflections, encouragement, and actionable tips.
This episode is your reminder: you don’t need to be perfect. You need to be present, curious, and committed to student thinking. Great math teaching starts right where you are.

👉 Listen now, subscribe to the podcast, and leave a review to help more teachers hear this message.
And if you’re not sure whether the Word Problem Workshop is right for you, reach out to Mona directly on Instagram @hellomonamath—she’s happy to help you figure it out.

You’ve got what it takes. Let’s do this together.