How to Start Connecting Mathematical Representations in Classrooms

Making Math Moments That Matter · Apr 27, 2026 · 26m

In today’s math classrooms, there’s a growing expectation: students should be able to use and connect multiple mathematical representations. From visual models to symbolic notation, this practice is becoming a key part of high-quality math instruction. But for many teachers, this shift feels challenging—especially when their own experience with math was primarily abstract and procedural.

So what happens when you’re asked to teach in a way you didn’t experience yourself? When you’re expected to connect visual, physical, contextual, and symbolic representations—but don’t feel like you have the…