Teach Math Like a Play

What if your math lessons felt more like a story than a worksheet?
 In this episode of Tier 1 Interventions, Cheri Dotterer and Jonily Zupancic reveal how to teach math like a play — using the power of storytelling to captivate every student.

Discover how the Three-Act Math Story (Act 1 Hook • Act 2 Story • Act 3 Offer) transforms problem-solving into curiosity-driven learning. You’ll hear how teachers spark engagement with focus triggers like “Tell me about…” and nonverbal cues such as spirit fingers and jazz hands — all while keeping math meaningful, memorable, and fun.

🎭 Because when math class has a plot, every student becomes part of the story.

🔔 Subscribe for more Tier 1 math interventions, strategies, and training.
 📅 Join the next Masterclass → https://disabilitylabs.com/calendar

💬 COMMENT BELOW: What’s YOUR take on starting with division?

00:00 Welcome to Tier 1 Interventions  

00:38 Why Students Stop Thinking  

02:06 The Three-Act Math Play  

03:56 The Natalie Strategy: Get Every Student Talking  

06:25 Leveling the Playing Field  

08:05 Every Kid Has an Entry Point  

10:18 Teach Like a Champion in Math Class  

13:05 Hook • Story • Offer for Teachers  

14:56 Spirit Fingers vs Jazz Hands 😂  

19:56 Tangents That Teach  

21:24 Preview: Double-Digit Multiplication  

👉 Join our FREE Masterclass for school leaders, teachers, and OTs:
 https://disabilitylabs.com/calendar

🌐 Website: https://disabilitylabs.com/courses/mastery-math-bundle
📧 Disability Labs Community: https://disabilitylabs.com/community/3d-learning-lounge-1

🎙️ Credits:
Host: Cheri Dotterer
Co-Host: Jonily Zupancic
Production: Disability Labs Podcast Network

Mastery Math Method Level One (Lifetime Access): https://disabilitylabs.com/courses/mastery-math-bundle
Mastery Math Method Level Two (Annual Subscription): https://disabilitylabs.com/courses/mastery-math-method-group-coaching

⚠️ Disclaimer: The content shared in this video is for educational purposes only and does not replace your district’s policies or individualized education plans. Always consult with your instructional team before implementing new strategies.

#Tier1Interventions #MathIntervention #MasteryMathMethod #TeachingStrategies #SpecialEducation #MTSS #NeurodiverseLearning #Jonily #Cheri