Teaching mathematics effectively requires more than just following a curriculum—it demands thoughtful lesson planning that considers how students learn and engage with mathematical concepts. 

For instructors using Math-U-See, creating lesson plans that lean into the program’s unique approach can greatly improve how students understand and retain mathematical concepts.

Understanding the Math-U-See Approach

At its core, Math-U-See focuses on mastery over memorization. 

Rather than rushing through concepts to keep pace with a preset schedule, the Math-U-See approach helps students fully grasp each mathematical building block before moving forward to new ideas. Carefully structured lessons that incorporate manipulatives, visual aids, and concept-based learning help students develop a deeper understanding of mathematical principles.

The program enables students to understand the “why” behind their mathematical operations, giving them confidence through comprehension rather than rote learning. Thoughtful lesson planning is a critical key to ensuring the goals of this mastery-based approach align with student learning objectives and help promote independent learning. 

Structured lesson planning is important for successful Math-U-See instruction. Clearly thought-out and organized lessons allow you to meet the needs of many students through whole group, small group and one-on-one learning structures.

The 4 Ps of Effective Lesson Planning

1) Preparation

Effective math lesson planning begins with thorough preparation. Start by reviewing the Instruction Manual, videos, and lesson worksheets for a specific lesson. Initial preparation may take time, but you’ll find that once you’re familiar with the program, ongoing planning only requires a few minutes each week.

The four key components of preparation:

• Reviewing learning objectives for the lesson
• Gathering necessary manipulatives and resources
• Identifying potential areas where students might need extra support
• Creating a realistic timeline for instruction and practice

Planning Structure

Effective Math-U-See lessons can follow a general structure that you see below:

• Day 1 and 2: Introduce new concepts from the lesson videos and Instruction Manual by working through examples together using the Build, Write, Say method.
• Day 3 and 4: Focus on lesson practice pages and cooperative learning activities to reinforce the new material. Reteach and support as needed. Incorporate independent practice as students become ready.
• Day 5, 6, and 7: Use the “Build, Write, Say” process to assess student mastery. Continue independent practice, if needed, or move on to systematic review pages if students are showing mastery. The systematic review pages are essential for applying new concepts in the context of previously learned material.
• Day 8: Assign the lesson test. Use the application and enrichment pages to extend learning. 

While maintaining consistent patterns helps students know what to expect, this structure is a helpful starting place and should be adapted based on classroom needs. Some students may need one week to complete a certain lesson, while others need longer. The exact timing will vary based on the individual student and lesson. If you have additional questions about lesson structure, reach out to your account manager at schools@demmelearning.com.

2) Presentation

The “Build, Write, Say” method forms the foundation of Math-U-See’s instructional design. 

This three-part approach helps engage students through multiple learning modalities:

1. Build: Demonstrate concepts using manipulatives to create a tangible connection to abstract mathematical ideas. A hands-on approach helps students learn conceptually and provides an opportunity to make connections between math topics. 
2. Write: Work through problems step-by-step with the manipulatives, documenting each stage clearly. This provides the connection between the concrete manipulatives and the abstract problem.
3. Say: Explain the reasoning behind each step to encourage student thinking and reinforce understanding. Verbalization helps enhance retention and opens feedback opportunities through student responses.

When implementing the “Build, Write, Say” method, it’s important to use these three elements in conjunction with one another, when the student has the capability to do so. For example, when teaching multiple-digit addition and subtraction, if a step is taken to regroup with the blocks then the work should be reflected immediately in the written problem.  Some instructors underestimate the importance of the “Say” component, particularly with older students. However, having students of every age verbalize their problem-solving process is key to proper information storage in long-term memory. Encourage students to explain their thinking and methodology as they work through problems. This process can often provide more feedback about your student’s understanding than a test!

During presentation, focus on:

• Consistently and clearly using the “Build, Write, Say” method to introduce new concepts 
• Using relevant real-life examples to connect concepts to student experiences
• Creating opportunities for students to demonstrate their understanding
• Incorporating appropriate learning activities that reinforce key concepts

3) Practice

Independent practice is important for developing student understanding. 

The Student Workbook provides structured opportunities for students to apply their knowledge:

• Begin with the Lesson Practice pages to solidify comprehension
• Encourage students to ask questions and identify areas needing clarification
• Monitor class time to ensure productive lesson pacing
• Provide feedback that guides students toward mastery

Remember that successful organization of practice time helps students stay engaged while building skills. Consider creating a brief agenda that outlines specific learning activities and keeps the lesson focused on main points.

4) Progression

Determining when students are ready to advance requires careful assessment of their performance. 

Look for:

• The teach back: when students can teach concepts back to you using “Build, Write, Say”
• Consistent demonstration of concept mastery
• Success with independent work (i.e. lesson practice pages)
• Error analysis: can the student identify and correct their mistakes 

For students needing additional support, the Digital Toolbox offers extra resources and practice opportunities. With the Early Access release to our new platform, these same resources are now available in a redesigned layout that enhances navigation, improves mobile usability, and presents content more clearly, making it easier for both students and instructors to stay focused. This integrated course design ensures learners progress at their own pace while maintaining focus on the instructor’s teaching goals.

Maximizing Student Learning with Math-U-See

To create successful lesson plans that address diverse learning needs:

• Establish clear learning objectives for each session
• Incorporate multiple teaching strategies to engage different types of learners
• Plan transitions between activities to maintain student focus
• Include time for assessment and remaining questions

Instructors should also:

• Allow extra time for complex concepts
• Create discussion questions that promote deeper understanding
• Use videos or other multimedia resources when appropriate
• Develop strategies for sharing lessons with teaching assistants or co-instructors

Remember that prioritized learning objectives help maintain lesson focus while ensuring comprehensive coverage of essential concepts throughout the school year.

Building Success Through Strategic Planning

Effective math lesson planning helps instructors create clear road maps while remaining flexible enough to adapt to student needs. By incorporating Math-U-See’s manipulatives and systematic approach, instructors can develop engaging learning experiences that promote genuine mathematical understanding.

Through careful planning and implementation of these strategies, instructors can help students develop strong mathematical foundations that serve them well throughout their academic careers. The key is maintaining consistent focus on student understanding while providing appropriate support and guidance throughout the learning process.

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