The Problem With Math Tricks and Shortcuts
You’re in the middle of a math lesson, and one of your students confidently blurts out, “Oh, I know a trick for this!” At first,
Math Wheels for Note-taking?
Why Students Confuse Area and Perimeter {and What It Reveals}
If you’ve ever graded a math assignment and noticed your students calculating the perimeter when the question clearly asked for area, you know how frustrating
Everything You Need to Teach Ratios and Rates
I can still remember those nights when I would look at my pacing guide and realize my ratios unit was coming up next. My computer
The Ultimate No Prep Math Activity You Need in Your Classroom
Teaching middle school math can feel like juggling flaming bowling pins while standing on a moving skateboard. You are planning lessons for multiple periods (and
How to Use Color by Number Activities for Spiral Review
Spiral review is one of the most effective ways to help our students retain math skills over time, but keeping it engaging can be a
7 Go To Resources for Teaching Inequalities in Middle School
If you’ve ever taught inequalities, you know how important it is to mix clear explanations with plenty of practice. From helping your students understand what
Effective Ways to Teach the Constant of Proportionality
Teaching proportional relationships can feel tricky for our seventh graders. That’s where the constant of proportionality comes in. This concept gives our students the key
The Keys to Teaching Integer Operations
If you’ve ever had students mix up when to add, subtract, or change the sign while working with integers, you’re definitely not alone. Integer operations
Engaging Intro Activities for the First Week of Math Class
Most traditional icebreakers in math class can feel awkward at best and downright painful at worst. If you’ve ever watched your students groan at the
Teaching Ratios and Proportions in the Middle School Math Classroom
Whether you’re prepping for a new school year or diving into some PD, this ratios and proportions professional development session is a goldmine for 6th
Rethinking the First Week: How to Develop a Growth Mindset in Math
The first week of school can set the tone for the entire year, especially in math class. It’s the perfect opportunity to do more than
How to Confidently Teach One Step Equations in 6th Grade Math
When your students first encounter one-step equations, it’s not just about solving simple problems. It’s about laying the groundwork for algebraic thinking. These equations teach
Welcome to Cognitive Cardio Math! I’m Ellie, a wife, mom, grandma, and dog ‘mom,’ and I’ve spent just about my whole life in school! With nearly 30 years in education, I’ve taught:
- All subject areas in 4th and 5th grades
- Math, ELA, and science in 6th grade (middle school)
I’ve been creating resources for teachers since 2012 and have worked in the elearning industry for about five years as well!
If you’re looking for ideas and resources to help you teach math (and a little ELA), I can help you out!
