Math is messy — and that’s precisely how mastery begins.
In this Tier 1 Interventions episode, Cheri Dotterer and Jonily Zupancic challenge the myth that math (and writing) should be neat, orderly, and always “on the line.” From the Locker Problem to real-world classroom stories, they model how productive chaos and productive struggle help students think critically, notice patterns, and build an accurate understanding of numbers.
🧠 Inside this episode:
• Why “messy math” is essential for deep learning
• How to turn student drafts into tools for reflection
• The OT perspective on movement and memory
• The three types of bilateral integration and how they re-engage the brain
• What “You can’t rush math art” really means for teachers
✨ Takeaway: Learning isn’t about control — it’s about connection, curiosity, and courage to make a mess before mastery.
💬 Drop your thoughts and experiences in the comments—start the conversation and build the movement because every student deserves to feel like a mathematician.
🔔 Subscribe for more Tier 1 math interventions, strategies, and training.
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💬 COMMENT BELOW: What’s YOUR take on starting with division?
⏱️ Chapters
00:00 – Welcome to Tier 1 Interventions
00:40 – What Makes Mastery Math Different
01:15 – Why Math Must Be Messy
02:30 – The Type-A Teacher Trap
03:45 – Draft-1 Thinking: Messy Before Mastery
05:20 – Framing the Chaos: Learning From Mistakes
07:00 – What Do You Notice? Pattern Spotting in Action
09:30 – The OT’s Secret: Move to Remember
11:50 – Three Types of Bilateral Integration Explained
13:40 – When Planning Gets in the Way of Learning
15:10 – The Locker 11 Revelation
17:15 – “If I Say It, They Hear It — If They Say It, They Learn It”
19:20 – Turning Observation Into Ownership
21:00 – The 12 Song: Rhythm Meets Math Fluency
23:40 – “You Can’t Rush Math Art” — Lessons From Toy Story
25:30 – When Students Finally See the Pattern
26:30 – Wrap-Up: Messy Learning Creates Mastery
🎯 Ready to Change Math Outcomes in 10 Days?
👉 Join our FREE Masterclass for school leaders, teachers, and OTs:
https://disabilitylabs.com/calendar
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🔗 Stay Connected
🌐 Website: https://disabilitylabs.com/courses/mastery-math-bundle
📧 Disability Labs Community: https://disabilitylabs.com/community/3d-learning-lounge-1
🎙️ Credits:
Host: Cheri Dotterer
Co-Host: Jonily Zupancic
Production: Disability Labs Podcast Network
🧠 Resources Mentioned:
Mastery Math Method Level One (Lifetime Access): https://disabilitylabs.com/courses/mastery-math-bundle
Mastery Math Method Level Two (Annual Subscription): https://disabilitylabs.com/courses/mastery-math-method-group-coaching
⚠️ Disclaimer: The content shared in this video is for educational purposes only and does not replace your district’s policies or individualized education plans. Always consult with your instructional team before implementing new strategies.
🏷️ Hashtags
#MathIsMessy #Tier1Interventions #MasteryMathMethod #BrainBasedLearning #REWIREMethod #OTinSchools #TeacherMindset