December 16, 2025 15:13 S3:E15

We're Teaching MATH Backwards

We’re teaching math backwards — and it’s one of the biggest reasons students struggle with understanding, retention, and confidence.

In this Tier 1 Interventions episode, Jonily Zupancic explains why traditional math instruction focuses too heavily on answers rather than thinking and how that sequencing mistake creates fragile learning.

When students can get correct answers but can’t explain their reasoning, transfer skills, or retain concepts, the issue isn’t effort or intelligence. It’s how math is being taught.

Using real classroom examples and student work, you’ll learn:

Why answer-getting doesn’t equal math mastery
How visual math structures (rectangles, arrays, diamond problems) support understanding
Why early algebra exposure should begin in elementary school
How Tier 1 math interventions can reduce frustration and build confidence
What it means to teach math for thinking, reasoning, and sense-making

This video is for:

Elementary and middle school teachers
Math interventionists and specialists
Homeschool parents
Educators supporting struggling or neurodivergent learners

👉 Want to see the full system in action?
You can experience one Mastery Math Method workshop for just $47 and walk step-by-step through the approach used in this video.

👉 Want to experience the full workshop?
You can sign up to experience one workshop for just $47. The link is here.

https://disabilitylabs.com/courses/mastery-math-method-group-coaching

⏱️ Chapters

00:00 – Why Math Isn’t Sticking

01:08 – What “Teaching Math Backwards” Really Means

02:40 – Why A’s Don’t Equal Mastery

04:12 – Answer-Getting vs Mathematical Thinking

06:05 – The Power of Structure in Math

08:10 – Rectangles, Arrays, and Visual Models

10:02 – Diamond Problems Explained

12:25 – Early Algebra Starts Sooner Than You Think

14:40 – Why Exposure Beats Memorization

17:05 – Teaching for Reasoning and Sense-Making

19:10 – What Tier 1 Math Interventions Should Look Like

21:30 – How to Fix Math Instruction Moving Forward

23:45 – Next Steps: Learn the Mastery Math Method

🎯 Ready to Change Math Outcomes in 10 Days?

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

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🔗 Stay Connected

🌐 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

🧠 Resources Mentioned:

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.

Keywords

teaching math backwards

math mastery vs memorization

Tier 1 math interventions

math intervention strategies

why students struggle in math

visual math models

early algebra instruction

math sense making

elementary math teaching strategies

math for neurodivergent learners

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