Math classes have changed dramatically from the past. Students are no longer asked to focus solely on calculations, algorithms, and formulas. Teachers are trained to ask deep, thought-provoking questions that force students to dive deeper into the material.

Teachers place a focus on collaborative learning to encourage students to discuss their ideas. In this environment, all levels of students can contribute to the conversation and learn from each other.

Teachers use low floor, high ceiling problems as often as possible. These types of problems have easily accessible starting questions (low floor) but can be taken to conceptually advanced levels (high ceiling).

Students are given opportunities to engage with the class in meaningful ways. Not all students take advantage of these opportunities. If your student is saying they aren’t engaged in math class, then it might necessitate a conversation about what they are doing instead of working collaboratively on problem-solving.