You Can't Rush Math Art

In this Tier 1 Interventions episode, Cheri Dotterer and Jonily Zupancic challenge the myth that math (and writing) should be neat, orderly, and always “on the line.” From the Locker Problem to real-world classroom stories, they model how productive chaos and productive struggle help students think critically, notice patterns, and build an accurate understanding of numbers.

🧠 Inside this episode:
 • Why “messy math” is essential for deep learning
 • How to turn student drafts into tools for reflection
 • The OT perspective on movement and memory
 • The three types of bilateral integration and how they re-engage the brain
 • What “You can’t rush math art” really means for teachers

✨ Takeaway: Learning isn’t about control — it’s about connection, curiosity, and courage to make a mess before mastery.

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

00:00 – Welcome to Tier 1 Interventions

00:40 – What Makes Mastery Math Different

01:15 – Why Math Must Be Messy

02:30 – The Type-A Teacher Trap

03:45 – Draft-1 Thinking: Messy Before Mastery

05:20 – Framing the Chaos: Learning From Mistakes

07:00 – What Do You Notice? Pattern Spotting in Action

09:30 – The OT’s Secret: Move to Remember

11:50 – Three Types of Bilateral Integration Explained

13:40 – When Planning Gets in the Way of Learning

15:10 – The Locker 11 Revelation

17:15 – “If I Say It, They Hear It — If They Say It, They Learn It”

19:20 – Turning Observation Into Ownership

21:00 – The 12 Song: Rhythm Meets Math Fluency

23:40 – “You Can’t Rush Math Art” — Lessons From Toy Story

25:30 – When Students Finally See the Pattern

26:30 – Wrap-Up: Messy Learning Creates Mastery

👉 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.

#MathIsMessy #Tier1Interventions #MasteryMathMethod #BrainBasedLearning #REWIREMethod #OTinSchools #TeacherMindset