While students need to be able to recall basic math facts, lessons can’t stop there. Educators should persist in teaching the deep relationship between numbers so that students can eventually solve problems in their own way. Students will become effective critical thinkers if they understand that struggle is a productive part of learning math.

Learning how to productively struggle not only prepares them for their next math class, it prepares them for their careers. The future job market is a mystery, so we've got to make sure our students can think for themselves. By encouraging students to productively struggle, creating a community of learners, and incorporating math talks, math teachers will help create a generation of independent thinkers.

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