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What Happens When We Stop Teaching Math as Memorization?
What happens when we stop teaching math as a set of steps to memorize and instead create space for students to explore, question, and discover? In this episode, Jimmy Dietmeyer and I dig into how shifting our approach to teaching math differently can transform classrooms—and mindsets.
A Math Classroom Moment That Changed Everything for Jimmy
Sometimes, one moment can shift your entire teaching philosophy. I share how repeated “whys” during a word problem revealed that so much of my own math learning was built on memorization—not true understanding. That eye-opening classroom moment sparked a shift toward deeper, student-centered math instruction.
What Jimmy’s Students Really Need During Math Time
Do students need more support, or do they need to be pushed? The truth is, they need both. We explore how striking the balance between encouragement and challenge helps students persevere and thrive in math.
From Answer-Getters to Problem Solvers
Too often, students are trained to race toward the “right” answer. But real math growth happens in the struggle. In this conversation, we unpack how giving students ownership of the talk, the strategies, and the connections helps them grow into true problem-solvers.
Letting Go of Old Math Habits
Many of us were taught to show students exactly how to solve problems. But when we stop being the explainer and start being the facilitator, something powerful happens: students lean in, engage more deeply, and develop authentic understanding. I share why letting go of old habits changed everything for my teaching.
What I Hope My Students Remember
Years from now, students may not recall every formula or equation—but they’ll remember the joy of discovery. They’ll carry the belief that they can do hard things and the confidence that comes from persevering. That’s the lasting impact math teachers can create.
A Whisper from Jimmy to Every Math Teacher
If I could whisper one message into the ear of every teacher planning their next math lesson, it would be this: stop teaching and start facilitating. When we create space for students to wrestle with ideas, collaborate, and grow, that’s where the magic of math truly happens.
🎧 Listen Now
This episode is full of actionable insights and real-life stories about teaching math differently. Tune in to hear the full conversation, subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes, and leave a review to help us reach more educators.