Math and arithmetic are often used interchangeably. But there’s a difference between arithmetic and mathematics. And it impacts our practices in the classroom.

Comprehending number stories can be challenging. For students who are ELL, there’s an added layer of difficulty. But there are strategies that help.

Finding the math main idea of a number story is an important part of helping students understand what problems are asking.

Often it’s not a student’s ability or skill that holds them back. Fixed mindsets are prevalent and they can be really harmful. Learn how to instill a growth mindset.

The idea of unit is foundational to math. Learn why they’re also critical to comprehension of number stories.

Word problems, or number stories as I call them, can be hard. But they necessary and have tons of benefits for your students.

Visual representations are important at all levels of mathematics. They help students see the math. And when we can visualize what’s happening within a problem, it helps us understand abstract concepts.

Number stories that include multiplicative relationships can be a challenge. The Repeated Equal Groups (REG) structure helps students understand what’s happening in the problem.

The Compare structure helps students visualize the comparison relationship that occurs in some number stories. Find out how to use it.

Parts Equal Total helps us model math stories that describe composing 2 or more parts to form a total. Learn how to introduce and use them.

Meet Jasmin Nabors, a 4th grade teacher in Durham, NC. She’ll share her struggles and successes with SoE, along with a few tips.

Mindset is a powerful thing. Learn how fixed mindsets can negatively impact students and how to help them develop growth mindsets.