“We Want Number Sense and Fluency”—So Why Are You Skipping Data?

Why does data always feel like the thing we don’t have time for in math?

Teachers and leaders say they want students who can think critically, reason mathematically, and engage with real-world problems. But when time gets tight, data is often the first strand to go—seen as extra, wishy-washy, or disconnected from “real math.” In this episode, Jon Orr and Yvette Lehman challenge that thinking and argue that data isn’t competing with number sense—it’s one of the most powerful ways to build it.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• Why data is often perceived as less rigorous or less important in math
• How data naturally supports number sense, proportional reasoning, and multiplicative thinking
• Why real-world data creates more authentic math experiences than contrived word problems
• How data supports critical thinking, discourse, and visual reasoning
• Why interpretive math isn’t “soft”—it’s essential
• Practical ways to integrate data without derailing pacing
• Resources teachers can use right away to bring meaningful data into instruction

If you’ve ever felt like you have to choose between number sense and data, this episode will help you rethink that tradeoff—and give you concrete ways to make data a meaningful part of math learning.

Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: https://makemathmoments.com/grow/ 

Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com 

Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem-based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units 

Show Notes Page

Love the show? Text us your big takeaway!

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.