Imagine Learning

Looking at the most recent NAEP results (aka the Nation’s Report Card) might be the last thing you’d think would inspire optimism. But let’s take a glass-half-full approach for a minute here: in fourth grade, the average math score improved slightly from 2022. This means that educators’ and students’ hard work is paying off.

Unfortunately, this improvement still puts most fourth and eighth graders performing below pre-pandemic levels. There is clearly still work to be done — and some states have really dug into that work. Alabama, for instance, overhauled their state standards in 2019, created a new assessment, and passed a law designed to improve math instruction. And it’s working: Alabama is the only state whose fourth graders’ average math scores improved over those from 2019.

High-quality curriculum matters, but so does pedagogy

While it is clear that foundational math skills are key to future success — and evidence-based, high-quality instructional materials can help students build those skills — every classroom does not yet have access to those resources.

But, to keep our glasses half full, there are plenty of evidence-based strategies that teachers can implement today, without any external resources. In fact, they might be doing most of them already. Here are four:

1. Have dedicated math time and incorporate math throughout the day

In a practice guide based on an analysis of several studies, the Institute of Education Sciences recommends devoting a set amount of time each day for math instruction coupled with connecting math to other activities throughout the day.

This first part probably feels like a no-brainer: of course a classroom (or a secondary class schedule) would have dedicated math time each day. But that’s the best part! Check that off the list as an evidence-based strategy students are receiving each day.

It’s a little trickier to incorporate math throughout the day. Like writing across all subjects, it makes sense to reinforce math concepts when they come up naturally in other activities. But how?

Stanford’s Development and Research in Early Mathematics Education (DREME) suggests that “math learning can occur throughout the day by integrating math into classroom transitions and routines.” For example, elementary teachers can try using prompts about numbers to get students’ attention. “If you can hear me, use your fingers to show me a number that’s bigger than two.” Or for older students: “If you can hear me, use your fingers to show me a number that’s the square root of 25.”

2. Teacher modeling with a side of metacognitive strategies

Explicit instruction is one of the most effective ways to support student learning. That means modeling strategies, thinking out loud, and making problem-solving steps transparent. When teachers use metacognitive strategies, such as verbalizing their reasoning process, it helps students develop deeper conceptual understanding.

This can be as simple as working through a math problem on the board while explaining each step or asking students to reflect on the strategies they used to find an answer. Encouraging students to ask themselves, “Does this answer make sense?” helps build their confidence and accuracy in problem-solving.

3. Frequent practice opportunities

The adage “practice makes perfect” may not be entirely accurate, but practice does lead to progress toward skill mastery. Frequent, structured practice opportunities help reinforce skills and ensure that students retain what they’ve learned. That doesn’t mean endless worksheets, though — practice can take many forms, from hands-on activities to digital programs like Imagine Math^®, which provides personalized practice that adapts to student needs.

Repeated exposure to math concepts in a variety of contexts builds fluency, allowing students to apply their learning in different situations. Whether it’s a quick daily review, interactive games, or real-world problem-solving scenarios, consistent practice strengthens foundational skills.

4. Peer-to-peer teaching and learning

Students learn a great deal from explaining their thinking to others. Peer-to-peer teaching encourages students to verbalize their understanding, identify errors in reasoning, and develop a stronger grasp of mathematical concepts.

Collaborative learning strategies, such as think-pair-share or small group problem-solving, give students opportunities to engage in meaningful discussions about math. Of course, finding time and ways to implement these strategies in a busy classroom isn’t always easy. But even small moments of peer-to-peer interaction can make a big difference. When students teach each other, they reinforce their own learning while helping their peers solidify concepts.

Educators are already using many of these strategies every day — because they work! While access to high-quality curriculum and resources can make a significant difference, it’s clear that strong instructional practices are equally crucial. Keep looking for ways to reinforce foundational math skills, celebrate the progress students make, and know that your efforts are making an impact.

About the Author – Ally Jones

Ally Jones is a former high school educator who specialized in teaching English language learners. Outside of education, she is passionate about fitness, literature, and taking care of the planet for her son’s generation.