Word Problem Workshop: A Conversation with Amanda
In this Math Chat episode, we sit down with Amanda, a teacher who has revolutionized her math instruction through Word Problem Workshop (WPW). Together, we explore how WPW has reshaped her teaching style and transformed her students’ confidence, problem-solving skills, and love for math. If you’re looking for actionable tips and inspiring stories, this episode is a must-listen!
From Student to Teacher: Amanda’s Math Journey
How Her Own Experience Shaped Her Teaching
Amanda reflects on her personal journey with math and how it influenced her teaching approach. She shares her “before and after” moments, revealing how shifting from traditional methods to Word Problem Workshop dramatically changed her classroom outcomes.
Debunking the Myth: Kids Can Do Hard Math
Challenging the Belief That Students Aren’t Ready for Tough Problems
A common misconception is that young learners can’t handle difficult math. Amanda busts this myth, explaining how WPW has proven that students can tackle tough problems and thrive. If you’ve ever doubted your students’ abilities, this episode will help you reframe what’s possible.
Shifting Focus: “Tell Me What You’re Thinking”
The Power of Asking, Not Telling
Amanda reveals a pivotal change in her teaching: instead of telling students what to think, she asks them to share their thinking. She tells the story of how this shift led to a breakthrough moment for one of her students, highlighting the importance of fostering independent problem-solving skills.
Data-Driven Growth: WPW in Action
Tracking the Impact of Word Problem Workshop
How do you measure the success of WPW? Amanda shares concrete data, comparing her students’ progress from Fall 2022 to Spring 2025. You’ll hear about the impressive growth her students made, both academically and personally, as they engaged with WPW.
Confidence and Community: WPW’s Impact Beyond Numbers
How WPW Transformed Student Mindsets
It’s not just about the grades. Amanda reflects on how WPW has shaped her students’ confidence and sense of identity as mathematicians. With WPW, her classroom has transformed into a vibrant community of active problem solvers, and you can hear how that shift has made all the difference.
A Day in the Life: Planning for Success with WPW
How Amanda Structures Her Math Lessons
Want to know how Amanda plans a successful day of math instruction? She walks us through her planning process, highlighting how she uses WPW to structure engaging and meaningful lessons. If you’re looking for fresh ideas for your own math lessons, this part will be incredibly helpful!
How WPW Changed Amanda as a Teacher
Growing as an Educator with Word Problem Workshop
WPW has had a lasting impact on Amanda as a teacher. She shares how the framework has helped her refine her teaching style, become more reflective, and develop a student-centered classroom. This shift has not only benefited her students but also her own professional growth.
Advice for Teachers Nervous About Trying WPW
Overcoming Fear and Embracing Change
If you’re nervous about implementing WPW, Amanda’s advice will help you take that first step. She encourages teachers to start small and reminds us that even the smallest change can have a big impact on student learning.
Joining the Word Problem Workshop Movement
What It Means to Be Part of the WPW Story
As someone whose own classroom stories helped shape Word Problem Workshop: 5 Steps to Creating a Classroom of Problem Solvers, Amanda reflects on what it means to be part of this transformative movement. Her passion for WPW shines through as she talks about how it empowers both teachers and students.
Looking Ahead: Year Three of WPW
What Amanda is Excited About in Year Three
Amanda shares her excitement for year three of Word Problem Workshop, discussing her goals for further refining her practice and supporting her students in their problem-solving journey. You won’t want to miss her vision for the future of WPW in her classroom.
Ready to Transform Your Classroom?
Listen, Subscribe, and Leave a Review!
This episode is filled with practical tips and inspiring stories that will help you transform your math instruction. If you’re ready to create a classroom of problem solvers, subscribe, listen to the full episode, and leave a review. And don’t forget to grab your copy of Word Problem Workshop: 5 Steps to Creating a Classroom of Problem Solvers to start empowering your students today!