If you're trying to reach every student by creating multiple versions of your math lesson—this episode is for you. Host Mona Iehl, math coach and creator of Word Problem Workshop, shows you how to differentiate effectively without doubling your workload. The secret? One well-chosen, open-ended problem—and the right mindset to support it.
Many of us grew up believing that differentiation meant creating different work for different learners—and then spent hours doing just that. But Mona breaks down a more effective approach: planning for variation, not perfection. Differentiation happens when we vary the content, process, product, or learning environment—not when we run ourselves ragged with busywork.
🧠 Content, Process, Product, and Environment: A Fresh Framework
Let’s get specific. Mona walks you through the four core elements of differentiated instruction in math:
- Content: Vary numbers or contexts within the same task
- Process: Offer choices—tools, strategies, partners
- Product: Let students show thinking in multiple ways
- Environment: Build spaces that support focus and risk-taking
Whether it’s offering manipulatives, flexible seating, or celebration of “messy” math, these strategies help all learners thrive.
🎧 Listen, Subscribe, and Simplify Your Math Block
✅ Listen to the full episode to discover a better way to differentiate in math
✅ Subscribe to the podcast so you never miss a strategy
✅ Leave a review to help more educators build flexible, inclusive math classrooms
📒 Word Problem Workshop BOOK coming later this year!
Create a classroom of problem solvers with this 5 step daily routine. Through diving deeply into one problem each day you can increase student engagement, problem solving, & math proficiency!
You don't have to wait for the book...
Word Problem Workshop Online Course is avaliable now!
I'll show you how to...
- engage every student in daily problem solving
- utilize a proven routine that allows students to collaborate, reflect, take risks, and use mistakes as opportunities.
- confidently facilitate a students lead problem solving workshop
Join today right HERE!
Popular Podcasts
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
The Joe Rogan Experience
The official podcast of comedian Joe Rogan.