E461
Should Students Show Their Work in Math? What Teachers Should Actually Assess
From Making Math Moments That Matter · Hosted by Kyle Pearce
Episode summary
In this episode of Making Math Moments That Matter: Some math teachers insist students must always show their math thinking. Others argue that if the math answer is correct, that should be enough. When math grading practices don’t align with math learning goals, frustration grows — for math students and parents alike.
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Original publisher description
Some math teachers insist students must always show their math thinking. Others argue that if the math answer is correct, that should be enough. When math grading practices don’t align with math learning goals, frustration grows — for math students and parents alike. The real issue isn’t compliance in math. It’s clarity about what we are assessing in math. In this episode, we explore: The difference between assessing math fluency and assessing math understandingWhy getting the right answer in math doesn’t always prove deep math understandingWhen requiring students to show their math thinking strengthens math learningWhen over-requiring explanation in math can harm math confidence and math identityHow math leaders can support math teachers in aligning math learning goals, math success criteria, and math grading practices Before grading the next math assessment, ask: What was I trying to measure in math — accuracy or reasoning? Your answer should determine whether students need to show their math thinking. Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: https://makemathmoments.com/grow/ Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem-based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units Show Notes Page Love the show? Text us your big takeaway! Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don’t want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode #139: "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.