How To Help Students Choose the Right Math Operation

It’s a familiar challenge— when it comes to deciding which math operation to use, students get stuck. In this episode, we explore one of the often overlooked reasons: a lack of understanding around mathematical structure and behaviour.

We dive into what’s really needed for students to confidently choose the appropriate operator, with a focus on structure—not only strategies or models. Using division and subtraction as examples, we highlight the different images, actions, and interpretations that shape how students approach problems—and why recognizing these distinctions is essential for meaningful math learning.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• Why students often struggle to select the appropriate math operator
• The critical role of understanding mathematical structure and behaviour
• How different interpretations of operations like division and subtraction can confuse students
• Practical steps teachers can take to support better operator selection
• The teachers role to connect the behaviour to the symbolic representation

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Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don’t want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode #139: "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.