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

(updated July 2024) There are 3 Structures of Equality (SoE). They each have 3 critical elements to help students comprehend number stories.

(updated July 2024) SoE are based on what works with bar models and CGI. With a few upgrades, you have a reading comprehension tool for math.

In a recent survey, 164 out of 168 elementary teachers agreed that reading and comprehension are the main hurdles to students solving word problems.