Visual Patterns That Lead to Algebra: Designing Math Tasks That Surface Student Thinking

Are we underestimating what young math learners can do with algebra — just because they’re young?

If you've ever watched a student skip the reasoning and jump straight into "finding the answer," you're not alone. In this episode, Yvette Lehman shares a raw, real experience that started with a misstep and turned into a breakthrough. Through a single change in how she worded a math prompt, she unlocked deeper thinking and powerful generalizations — from 10-year-olds. Whether you're a math educator, coach, or just curious about how to get students thinking beyond procedures, this story will resonate.

You’ll discover:

• How tweaking your questioning might be the game-changing move your students need
• How math task wording can unintentionally trigger misconceptions in developing math thinkers
• How to support students who are learning to generalize patterns involving indirect variation
• How to adjust math tasks to surface conceptual understanding—not just rule-following
• The value of student work moderation to support teacher learning and next steps
• Why visual patterns are a powerful tool for diagnosing and extending math thinking

Hit play now to hear how small shifts in language can lead to big mathematical breakthroughs — even for your youngest learners.

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Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com 

Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units 

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Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don’t want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode #139: "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.