Conceptual vs Procedural Math: What Effective Math Instruction Looks Like When You Stop Picking Sides

In this episode, hosts Jon Orr and Yvette Lehman unpack a tension that’s been debated in math education for decades: conceptual understanding vs. procedural fluency. Yvette shares a powerful realization from her math classroom experience: in striving to teach conceptually, she may have unintentionally neglected opportunities for students to build automaticity and recall. Meanwhile, Jon highlights the importance of helping students move fluidly between visual models, strategies, and algorithms. Together, they explore: Why the “either/or” debate in math instruction is a false dichotomy How different learners benefit from different approaches What happens when math teaching becomes too rigid in one direction The role of tutoring, parents, and community partners in shaping math success Why strong math instruction should leverage strengths while building other proficiencies How educators can balance reasoning, understanding, and efficiency This conversation is a reminder that great math teaching isn’t about choosing sides—it’s about creating access, building flexibility, and meeting students where they are. 👉 What if the real goal isn’t picking a side… but helping students move between them? Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem-based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units Show Notes Page Love the show? Text us your big takeaway! Get a Customized Math Improvement Plan For Your District. Are you district leader for mathematics? Take the 12 minute assessment and you’ll get a free, customized improvement plan to shape and grow the 6 parts of any strong mathematics program. Take the assessment Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don’t want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode : "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.

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Conceptual vs Procedural Math: What Effective Math Instruction Looks Like When You Stop Picking Sides is an episode from Making Math Moments That Matter by Kyle Pearce & Jon Orr.

This episode is 23:34 long.

This episode was published on Apr 16, 2026.

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