Structured Math Talk Toolkit

Structured Math Talk: Discourse Routines That Build Student Thinking Toolkit

ADAC’s Structured Math Talk Toolkit is designed to support teachers in implementing purposeful, structured math discourse through three research-based Math Language Routines (MLRs) developed by the Stanford Graduate School of Education. Rather than passive listening or one-voice instruction, these routines position students as active thinkers and communicators, building the conceptual understanding, mathematical reasoning, and executive function skills that lead to lasting growth. This toolkit provides educators with a clear set of actions they can implement in the classroom as early as tomorrow.

This toolkit empowers teachers across grades K–8 to move beyond unstructured “turn and talk” and design intentional discussion experiences that deepen comprehension, develop mathematical language, and ensure that all students participate, not just a few voices.

Key Features

1. Framework for Structured Math Discourse: A clear, research-grounded introduction to what math discourse is, and is not, including a definition from the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, a side-by-side “is/is not” guide, and an overview of why purposeful discussion strengthens conceptual understanding, problem-solving, and executive function.
2. Three Math Language Routine (MLR) Strategy Guides: Each of the three MLRs, Stronger & Clearer Each Time (MLR 1), Collect & Display (MLR 2), and Compare & Connect (MLR 3), is unpacked in its own dedicated section, featuring a “What is it?” and “Why is it important?” overview, step-by-step routine instructions, alignment to Common Core Math Practice Standards, and ready-to-use Teacher Moves and Student Sentence Frames or Supports.
3. Grade-Banded Classroom Vignettes: A “Routines in Action” page brings each MLR to life with detailed, grade-specific sample scenarios, MLR 1 for Grades K–2, MLR 2 for Grades 3–5, and MLR 3 for Grades 6–8, showing exactly what each routine looks and sounds like in a real classroom context.
4. NSBECS Alignment Quick Reference: A ready-to-use alignment page connecting the toolkit’s routines directly to National Standards and Benchmarks for Effective Catholic Schools (NSBECS), including Benchmarks 7.3, 7.4, and 7.8, along with guided reflection questions designed to anchor professional learning community conversations.

Perfect for math teachers at any grade level who want to make student thinking visible, increase participation, and build a classroom culture where mathematical reasoning is a shared, collaborative practice. Download the Math Discourse Toolkit today and give every student a voice in the math classroom.