Why Division is More Foundational Than Addition

In this powerful Level 2 episode of the Mastery Math Method series, math specialist Jonily Zupancic takes us deeper into the strategy of reordering math instruction for maximum impact. She challenges conventional wisdom by declaring that division is not just a late skill, but essential, even for little ones and strugglers.

You’ll learn how division-based instruction—centered on sharing, questioning, and visual grouping—can accelerate mastery of all operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication), reduce instructional time, and increase student memory through her CES framework: Culture, Essentials, and Seasons.

🎯 Whether you're an OT, a special ed teacher, or a curriculum leader—this paradigm shift will change how you see math forever.

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

00:00 – Welcome from Cheri & Introduction to Level 2

00:20 – Jonily's Disclaimer: This is a Level 2 Episode

01:30 – Who Should Care About Tier 1 Instruction

02:50 – The Mindset Shift: Teach for Behavior Change

03:15 – CES Framework: Culture, Essentials, Seasons

03:45 – Can We Start with Division? (Answer: Yes)

04:50 – Why Division Is More Essential Than Addition

05:50 – Mastery Math Method Masterclass Invitation

06:20 – Using Division to Teach All Operations

06:50 – You Don’t Pick the Essentials—Here’s Why

07:30 – Toddlers Understand Division (Sharing & Questions)

08:10 – How Traditional Schooling Kills Questioning

08:40 – Seasons Framework: Spaced Repetition for Retention

09:20 – Season 1: First 15 Days = Full Curriculum Exposure

09:50 – Seasons 2 and 3: Uplevel & January “Math in a Month”

10:40 – Why Most Students Can Master by January

11:15 – Littles? Adapt the Instruction, Don’t Replicate

11:45 – Sneak Peek: The Locker Problem is Coming Next

👉 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.

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