168: Step 1 Word Problem Workshop - Launch

An episode of the Math Chat podcast, hosted by Mona Iehl, titled "168: Step 1 Word Problem Workshop - Launch" was published on September 8, 2025 and runs 13 minutes.

September 8, 2025 ·13m · Math Chat

0:00 / 0:00

Summary

Send us Fan Mail It’s a common belief: “My students can’t read, so they need to master simple math first before tackling word problems.” But what if this thinking is actually holding students back? In this episode, we challenge the unproductive idea that kids must learn the basics first, and instead explore how word problems can be the foundation for building math proficiency. The Word Problem Workshop (WPW) is structured with five predictable steps, and it all begins with the Launch. This st...

Episode Description

Send us Fan Mail

It’s a common belief: “My students can’t read, so they need to master simple math first before tackling word problems.” But what if this thinking is actually holding students back? In this episode, we challenge the unproductive idea that kids must learn the basics first, and instead explore how word problems can be the foundation for building math proficiency.

The Word Problem Workshop (WPW) is structured with five predictable steps, and it all begins with the Launch. This step sets the stage, builds excitement, and helps students make sense of the problem before solving. By connecting the task to their background knowledge (like counting apples on a lunch tray), students immediately see how their experiences are valuable tools for problem solving.

🎧 Tune in now to hear the full episode, subscribe to the podcast, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway!
📘 Want more strategies? Join the Word Problem Workshop Book Launch Crew and get early access to tools that will transform your math instruction.