Allow me to introduce you to an engaging and effective way to get your students thinking critically about math: Nacho Problem! If you’re looking for a structured-yet-flexible approach to problem-solving that promotes discussion, reasoning, and collaboration, then this EduProtocol is exactly what you need.
What is Nacho Problem?
Nacho Problem is a structured math discussion protocol that helps students develop their problem-solving and reasoning skills in a low-floor, high-ceiling way. Instead of just solving problems in isolation, students work through an incorrectly solved problem that leads to, explaining their thinking, and building deeper conceptual understanding.
It’s not just any problem—it’s “Nacho” Problem because it encourages students to engage with math differently!
How It Works
Nacho Problem follows a consistent routine that makes math discussions more meaningful and accessible for all learners. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
Launch the Problem:
Choose a problem that has been solved incorrectly. It can be a common misconception or a key concept.
Present the problem to the class and encourage students to think critically.
Think & Solve:
Students work independently or in pairs to solve the problem using their own methods.
They show their thinking through models, equations, or number lines.
Share & Compare:
Students explain how they solved it and compare their work with others.
Emphasize multiple strategies—there’s more than one way to solve a problem!
Debrief & Reflect:
Discuss which strategies were efficient, clear, or creative.
Make connections between representations and reinforce math vocabulary.
Why Use Nacho Problem?
🔹 Builds Math Confidence – Encourages all students to participate in math discussions. 🔹 Focuses Thinking – Students can critically analyze problems, looking for errors and correcting them. 🔹 Reinforces Multiple Strategies – Helps students see different ways to approach a problem. 🔹 Encourages Math Talk – Improves reasoning, justification, and communication skills. 🔹 Works with Any Grade Level – Can be adapted for K-12 by adjusting the complexity of the problem.
Hear About It In Under 2 Minutes
I recently created a video tutorial to show exactly how Nacho Problem works. Check it out here:
Try It in Your Classroom!
Want to give Nacho Problem a try? Here’s what you can do next:
Choose a problem that fits your students’ current math skills. Use a template to help students structure their thinking. Encourage collaboration by having students discuss and compare strategies.
Nacho Problem is a fun, engaging, and powerful way to deepen students’ understanding of math. By making math conversations routine and structured, you’ll see more confidence, curiosity, and engagement in your classroom.
By using a pictorial model alongside expanded notation, students get a visual and numeric understanding of subtraction. This helps them move beyond memorized procedures to truly grasp why and how regrouping works.
Let’s break it down step by step!
Step 1: Set Up the Problem
We’re working with 736 – 274.
736 is represented using pictorial models in a place value chart:
7 hundreds
3 tens
6 ones
Below, we note in the corner of each place value column what we’re subtracting: 200 + 70 + 4 = 274
Step 2: Subtract Using the Pictorial Model
Subtract the Ones (6 – 4):
Cross off 4 ones (I like to use x to represent 1s).
That leaves 2 ones.
Regroup the Tens (30 – 70):
Uh-oh! We don’t have enough tens to subtract 70.
So, we regroup 100 into 10 tens (since 100 = 10 tens).
Now, we have 13 tens total (13 tens = 130)
We subtract 70 (or 7 tens) from 13 tens, leaving 6 tens (or 60).
Subtract the Hundreds (700 – 200):
After regrouping, we have 600 left in the hundreds place.
Subtracting 200 leaves us with 400.
Final Answer: 462
Step 3: Solve Using Base 10 Expanded Notation
Now, let’s represent the numbers in expanded form:
736 → 700 + 30 + 6
274 → 200 + 70 + 4
Subtracting step-by-step:
6 – 4 = 2
30 – 70 (not possible, so we regroup from the hundreds)
Moving 100 over to the 10s place, making it 130 – 70 = 60
600 – 200 = 400
Final Answer: 462
The Power of Dual Modeling
Using both pictorial and expanded form models side by side helps students see: ✏️ Why we “regroup” in subtraction ✏️ How place value plays a role in regrouping ✏️ That both methods lead to the same solution, reinforcing accuracy
When students see and practice both models together, they build deeper number sense and mathematical confidence!
Try This in Your Classroom!
You can grab a free MathReps template at MathReps.com and start using this strategy with your students today!
💡 Bonus Resource:Wipebook offers workbooks with four MathReps for second grade, providing structured practice all year long. Check them out!
I’m here to share another quick and easy Google Slides tip with you. Have you ever found yourself struggling to keep up with typing your speaker notes? Or maybe your thoughts come faster than your fingers can type? Well, Google Slides has a built-in voice typing feature that makes adding speaker notes effortless. No copying, no pasting—just speaking!
Let’s dive in and explore how to dictate your speaker notes in Google Slides.
Step 1: Expanding Your Speaker Notes Section
When you’re working in Google Slides, you’ll find a section at the bottom labeled Speaker Notes. This is where you can jot down key points, reminders, or even your full script for a presentation. If you need more space:
Click and hold the small bar above the Speaker Notes section
Drag it upward to increase the size
Now you have a larger, more comfortable space to work with!
Step 2: Activating Voice Typing
Instead of typing manually, you can dictate your notes using your voice. Here’s how:
Click on the Tools menu at the top of Google Slides.
Select Dictate Speaker Notes.
A microphone icon will appear and turn red, indicating it’s recording your voice.
Start speaking, and Google Slides will transcribe your words in real time!
That’s it—your notes are being typed automatically as you talk!
Real-World Use Cases
Voice typing isn’t just convenient—it can be a game-changer for students and educators.
I once had a student who used this feature while I was giving directions. This allowed her to capture everything I said, and she could go back and review it later. It’s a fantastic tool for students who need to reference instructions, as well as for teachers who want to create clear, accessible notes for their presentations.
Final Thoughts
Voice typing in Google Slides is quick, simple, and super efficient. Whether you’re preparing for a presentation, creating lesson plans, or helping students stay organized, this feature saves time and enhances accessibility.
Today, we’re diving into second-grade math with a MathRep that focuses on addition with regrouping.
In our previous posts, we explored using MathReps for addition and subtraction without regrouping. Now, we’re taking it a step further and tackling regrouping, helping students make the jump from pictorial models to expanded notation and the base 10 system.
So, buckle in—let’s get started!
Step-by-Step Guide: Regrouping with MathReps
Set Up the Numbers
For this example, we’re adding 682 + 234, and we’ll use a pictorial model to visually represent the numbers before transitioning into the expanded form.
Solve Using a Pictorial Model
1️⃣ Start with the Ones Place:
2 + 4 = 6
No regrouping needed here, so we write 6 in the ones place.
2️⃣ Move to the Tens Place:
We add 8 tens + 3 tens = 11 tens, which equals 110.
Since 10 tens = 100, we regroup by circling ten tens and moving them into the hundreds place.
This leaves 1 ten (10) in the tens place.
3️⃣ Move to the Hundreds Place:
We now have 6 hundreds + 2 hundreds + 1 regrouped hundred = 9 hundreds.
Bringing it all together: 916
Transition to the Base 10 Model (Expanded Notation)
Now, let’s break it down using expanded form:
682 → 600 + 80 + 2
234 → 200 + 30 + 4
Adding the place values:
Ones: 2 + 4 = 6
Tens: 80 + 30 = 110 → Regroup into 100 + 10
Hundreds: 600 + 200 + 100 = 900
Total: 916
Alternative Thinking: Flexible Number Sense
Instead of regrouping immediately, students can leave the tens as 110 and think of the sum as:
800 + 110 + 6 = 916
This approach challenges students to see numbers flexibly before applying the standard algorithm, deepening their conceptual understanding.
Why This Works
MathReps provide a structured, visual approach that helps students bridge the gap between pictorial models and formal mathematical notation. By working through regrouping in different ways, students develop number flexibility and problem-solving confidence.
Get Your Free MathReps!
Want to try this in your classroom? Download your free MathRep template at MathReps.com and explore even more math resources.
💡 Bonus Resource: Check out Wipebook for workbooks featuring MathReps—each workbook includes four MathReps to last the entire year!
Today, we’re diving into a simple but powerful feature in Google Slides—how to insert a chart from Google Sheets into your presentation without copy-pasting.
If you’ve ever needed to share data, track progress, or present reports to colleagues or board members, this tip will save you time and effort. Let’s check it out!
Step 1: Open Your Google Slide Presentation
Start by opening the Google Slides presentation where you want to insert your chart. Navigate to the slide where you need to add the data visualization.
Step 2: Insert a Chart from Google Sheets
Instead of copying and pasting, follow these steps:
Click on Insert in the top menu.
Scroll down to Chart > From Sheets.
A window will pop up showing your available Google Sheets. Select the sheet that contains the chart you need.
Once inside the selected spreadsheet, choose the correct chart by clicking on it (you’ll see a blue border appear).
Click Import, and just like that—bam!—your chart is now in your Google Slide.
No extra formatting, no fuss—just an easy and seamless way to integrate your data.
Step 3: Why Use This Method?
There are several reasons why inserting a chart from Google Sheets into Google Slides is a game-changer: ✔ No manual copy-pasting—saves time and effort. ✔ Live updates—if your data in Google Sheets changes, you can refresh the chart in Slides with a single click. ✔ Consistent formatting—ensures your reports look professional and well-organized.
This feature is especially useful when creating presentations for board meetings, tracking student fluency, or sharing progress reports with colleagues.
I told you it was super easy! Now you can insert charts from Google Sheets into Google Slides like a pro, making your presentations more data-driven and visually appealing.
If you enjoyed this quick Google tip and want to learn more, be sure to like, subscribe, and stay tuned for my next tutorial. Happy presenting, and see you next time!
I’m here to show you how MathRepscan make subtraction practice easier and more engaging for your students. In our last post, we explored how to use a MathRep for addition, and today, we’ll focus on subtraction.
This step-by-step guide will show you how to use the MathRep template in your classroom, helping students bridge the gap between visual models and abstract concepts.
For this example, we’ll work with 658 and 234. The subtraction problem is set up in a pictorial model, where the number 658 is represented visually, and 234 is broken down into ones, tens, and hundreds to subtract from each place value.
Use a Pictorial Model to Subtract
In the pictorial model, each section represents a place value: ones, tens, and hundreds.
Subtract the ones:
Start with 8 ones and subtract 4.
Cross out or erase 4 ones, leaving 4 ones.
Subtract the tens:
Start with 50 tens and subtract 30 (3 groups of ten).
Cross out 3 groups, leaving 20 tens.
Subtract the hundreds:
Start with 600 hundreds and subtract 200 (2 groups of 100).
Cross out 2 groups, leaving 400 hundreds.
Combine the remaining values: 400 + 20 + 4 = 424
Transition to the Base 10 Model
Now, transfer the pictorial model into a base 10 model by writing the numbers in expanded form:
658 → 600 + 50 + 8
234 → 200 + 30 + 4
Follow the same subtraction process:
Subtract the ones: 8 – 4 = 4
Subtract the tens: 50 – 30 = 20
Subtract the hundreds: 600 – 200 = 400
Bring it all together: 400 + 20 + 4 = 424
Why This Works
This activity helps students make meaningful connections between the pictorial model and the base 10 system, reinforcing their understanding of subtraction and place value. By bridging these two models, students gain confidence in solving subtraction problems and build a deeper understanding of the math concepts.
Get Started Today!
Ready to bring this subtraction strategy to your classroom? Head over to MathReps.com to download your free MathReps template and explore more resources for effective math practice.
With MathReps, subtraction doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By providing students with a structured and visual approach, you’re setting them up for success in their math journey. Let us know how it works for your students!
I’m excited to share how MathReps can transform daily math practice into a fun and engaging activity for your students. Whether you’re a seasoned teacher or just starting your journey, MathReps are a fantastic tool to build fluency and confidence in math concepts.
For today’s demonstration, let’s dive into a 2nd-grade MathRep and explore how you can use it in your classroom. This template can also be found on Wipebook Workbooks and Kami!
Step-by-Step Guide: Using MathReps in Your Classroom
1. Set Up the Numbers
For this example, we’re working with 237 and 422. Begin by deciding whether your students will add or subtract these numbers. For this demonstration, we’ll focus on addition.
2. Use a Pictorial Model
Start by setting up the numbers in a pictorial model.
Creating a 100’s chart will help students represent each digit in the numbers.
Each x will represent the ones (I prefer x’s over dots as it can become hard to distinguish individual dots)
Each l will represent the tens
Each square will represent the hundreds
Count the ones, tens, and hundreds in each number:
Once students understand the pictorial model, encourage them to transfer the information to a base 10 model by breaking down the numbers into expanded form:
237 → 200 + 30 + 7
422 → 400 + 20 + 2
Have the students add the expanded forms:
Add the ones: 7 + 2 = 9
Add the tens: 30 + 20 = 50
Add the hundreds: 200 + 400 = 600
Bring it all together: 600 + 50 + 9 = 659
Why It Works
This activity bridges the gap between pictorial models and abstract math concepts. Students not only practice addition but also develop a deeper understanding of place value and number decomposition.
Get Started Today!
Ready to try this out in your classroom? Visit MathReps.com to download your free MathReps template and discover more resources for math practice.
By using MathReps, you’re helping students build foundational skills in a way that’s both structured and engaging. Give it a try, and let us know how it works for your students!
Today we’re diving into a quick and practical tip for Google Slides—adding image placeholders to your custom themes or templates. This simple feature allows students to easily insert images into a set space, ensuring consistency and maintaining the design you’ve created.
In our last post, we discussed how to create custom themes for classrooms. Now, we’re taking it a step further with image placeholders. Whether you’re designing print-ready templates or interactive digital materials, this feature is a game-changer.
What Is an Image Placeholder?
An image placeholder in Google Slides is a designated space where users can easily insert an image. Unlike a regular image, placeholders don’t become part of the background—they’re dynamic and customizable. This makes them perfect for student templates where you want to guide where images should go, without students accidentally changing the layout.
How to Add an Image Placeholder
Adding an image placeholder to your template is super easy. Follow these steps:
Open your Google Slides presentation and go to the slide where you want to add a placeholder.
Navigate to Slide > Edit Theme. This opens the theme editor where you can customize layouts.
Select the layout you want to edit or create a new layout.
From the toolbar, click on Insert > Image Placeholder. You’ll see three options: rectangle, rounded rectangle, and oval.
Choose the shape that works best and drag it onto your slide to create the placeholder.
And that’s it! You’ve added an image placeholder.
How Students Use the Placeholder
When students use your template, here’s what they’ll see:
The placeholder appears as a box labeled “Replace Image.”
Students can click on the box and choose Replace Image from the toolbar.
From there, they can insert images from the web, their drive, or other sources.
Once the image is added, it might not fit perfectly. Students can double-click to adjust the size or reposition the image within the placeholder (using the blue outline). It’s intuitive and easy for them to use.
Classroom Applications
Image placeholders are especially useful in educational templates. For example:
Math Activities: Use placeholders for students to insert images representing equal groups, fractions, or geometric shapes.
Science Projects: Students can add diagrams or pictures for their reports.
Creative Assignments: Templates for digital art projects or storytelling.
The placeholders ensure students stay within the layout, keeping the template neat and organized.
Adding image placeholders in Google Slides is a quick and simple way to create interactive and visually appealing templates. This feature keeps your layouts consistent while giving users the freedom to add their own images.
If you enjoyed this tip and want to see more, don’t forget to subscribe here or on my YouTube channel. Stay tuned for my next post to explore more quick tips using Google Slides. Happy creating, and see you next time!
Today’s tip is all about creating your own Custom Theme in Google Slides. Whether you’re designing presentations for your classroom, professional meetings, or digital work for your classroom, custom themes ensure consistency, efficiency, and a polished final product. Let’s dive in!
Why Use a Custom Theme?
Custom themes offer several benefits:
Consistent design across all slides.
Easy to replicate layouts for multiple presentations.
Prevent accidental changes by students in classroom settings.
Save time with reusable templates.
Accessing the Theme Editor
Open a Google Slides presentation.
Go to Slide > Edit Theme.
This opens the Theme Editor, where you can customize layouts, fonts, and colors.
Customizing Fonts and Layouts
Select a layout from the left panel.
Click on any text element and change the font (e.g., Montserrat).
Changes will apply to all slides using that layout.
Pro Tip: Stick to 1-2 fonts for a clean, professional look.
Adding Design Elements to Layouts
Use shapes (e.g., circles, rectangles) for design consistency.
Customize with gradient backgrounds and border styles.
Duplicate shapes and align them for a cohesive layout.
Creating Print-Ready Templates
Choose a Blank Slide Layout.
Use shapes and lines to design specific templates (e.g., Freyer models).
Customize with placeholders for consistent structure.
Adding Placeholders
Placeholders define editable and non-editable areas:
Text Placeholder: Editable text areas for user input.
Text Box: Static text areas for instructions or headers.
To add a placeholder:
Go to Slide > Edit Theme.
Choose Insert Placeholder from the toolbar.
Adjust its position and size.
Creating a Student-Friendly Template
For classroom activities:
Lock instructional text and static design elements.
Create editable sections only where students need to type.
Use gridlines for models (e.g., area models).
Final Touches and Testing
Switch to the normal slide view. Select a slide from the left panel.
Test your template by adding a new slide.
Verify that only editable placeholders are modifiable.
Creating custom themes in Google Slides is an excellent way to save time, maintain consistency, and improve the quality of your presentations and worksheets. Explore text and image placeholders in upcoming videos!
If you found this guide helpful, don’t forget to check out my YouTube channelfor more tips. Happy designing, and see you soon!
