Season Two, Episode 10: Professor Anna Stokke on Effective and Engaging Math(s) Instruction

Season Two, Episode 10: Professor Anna Stokke on Effective and Engaging Math(s) Instruction

August 30, 2026 · 36 min

About this episode

In this episode, Professor Anna Stokke discusses effective mathematics instruction and the importance of explicit teaching and classroom routines.

Summary In this special in-person episode of Chalk Dust, recorded at researchEd Melbourne at Haileybury , Rebecca Birch and Nathaniel Swain are joined by Professor Anna Stokke, mathematician, educator and host of the Chalk & Talk podcast. Together they analyse classroom footage from Australian mathematics lessons, exploring how carefully sequenced instruction, explicit teaching and strong classroom routines support successful mathematics learning. Across examples including number bonds, subtraction algorithms, number lines and percentages, Anna explains why mathematics should be taught through deliberate sequencing, clear modelling and extensive guided practice. The discussion examines pair-share routines, scripted mathematics programs, mastery of mathematical symbols, the role of automaticity, and why concrete materials should be viewed as temporary scaffolds rather than permanent learning tools. Throughout the episode, Rebecca, Nathaniel and Professor Stokke discuss mathematics-specific pedagogy, instructional coaching, pedagogical content knowledge and the importance of ensuring every student has access to effective mathematics instruction. The conversation argues that…

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