Good morning,

This week’s episode follows on from a previous conversation with Kirsten and Holly about mathematical journaling. I’m joined by Mark Bowen, who listened to that episode, took the idea back to his own classroom, and adapted it into something that worked for his students. The result is a really practical conversation about what mathematical journaling can look like in action.

Mark talks through his three-part structure: download, investigate and communicate. Students begin by drawing on what they already know, then explore the problem, before finally explaining and justifying their thinking.

What I particularly enjoyed about this episode is that it is not presented as a neat, finished product. Mark talks honestly about what worked, what went wrong, why he initially moved too quickly, and how careful modelling and scaffolding helped students become more comfortable with struggle.

It is a conversation about journaling, yes, but it is also about something bigger: helping students move beyond surface-level calculation and become more active, reflective and confident mathematical thinkers.

The episode is called Mathematical Journaling in Action: Helping Students Think, Struggle and Explain and is available now wherever you listen to podcasts.

Hope you enjoy!

I can’t do maths! - Alf Coles

Thinking Deeply about Primary Mathematics - Kieran Mackle

Brilliant Subject Leader - Marc Bowen

The Power of Maths Journalling - Kirsten Fenton and Holly Drummon

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Huge thanks to everyone who shared last week’s episode. It genuinely helps the podcast reach more thoughtful primary teachers and leaders. If you know someone who values reflecting carefully on teaching, learning or leadership, I’d love it if you passed the link on.

That’s all from me this week. I’d really love to hear what you think about the episode. Leave a comment wherever you listen, or just hit reply and share your thoughts.

Until next time, thanks for listening.