Why Exposure Matters More Than Mastery

In this live Tier 1 Interventions session, Cheri Dotterer and Jonily Zupancic take you inside a Level 2 Mastery Math Method class as they explore the classic Locker Problem — one of the “Dirty Dozen” reference tasks students revisit year after year.

Jonily demonstrates how these timeless math tasks deepen logic, number sense, and symbolic understanding, while Cheri highlights how process time and conceptual exposure create space for authentic learning.

Discover why exposure before mastery can transform math instruction, how to nurture student vulnerability, and what happens when teachers stop rushing to confirm or deny answers.

🎧 Perfect for math educators, OTs, and interventionists ready to “uplevel” their practice and create classrooms where curiosity thrives.

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

00:00 – Welcome with Cheri & Jonily

01:00 – Level 2: Connecting the Dirty Dozen math tasks

03:00 – The Locker Problem explained

04:30 – Exposure vs. Mastery in learning

06:00 – Four categories of mathematical thinking (Number • Symbol • Shape • Logic)

07:30 – Moving from acting out to symbolic notation

11:00 – “What do you see? What do you notice?” discussion prompts

14:00 – Teaching through the crickets: embracing silence and vulnerability

16:00 – Building soft skills through math experiences

17:30 – Why students need more process time

18:30 – The sitcom trap of math instruction

19:30 – Letting the brain linger: the power of unconfirmed questions

20:30 – Reclaiming curiosity and authentic learning

21:00 – Next episode teaser: Pixar and the Power of Story in Math

👉 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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