Making Mathematical Memories in Middle School

Recently, Math Foundations students took their decimals and percentages to the next level with a hands-on (and hilarious) pizza-tipping activity! Their classroom transformed into a mock Italian restaurant where students calculated tip amounts based on the “service quality” they received. The activity was made even more entertaining thanks to some over-the-top appearances by PRS teachers. It was a delicious way to practice real-world math, financial literacy, and quick decision-making.

For Math Foundations and Introduction to Algebra teacher Lauren Mottles, designing memorable learning moments like Pizza Math is a deliberate and essential part of her teaching philosophy.

“Incorporating ‘real-world’ activities and experiences for my students is an essential part of my instructional decision-making process,” she explains. “When students find meaningful connections to their own lives in their mathematical work, the concepts are more likely to ‘stick’. Over the years, I have found the most effective lessons are the ones where my students and I make memories, and real-world applications help create those mathematical memories.”

These mathematical memories begin early at PRS, with Math Foundations as a cornerstone of the Middle School program to set students up for long-term success.

“My favorite part of teaching Math Foundations is welcoming students to the PRS math program and seeing their incredible growth over the course of the year,” Mottles says. “Math Foundations is such a crucial course because they are solidifying their understanding of essential concepts and continuing to build their own number sense. Together, we are literally laying the foundation for a successful mathematical future. The skills acquired in this course will carry them forward far beyond the walls of PRS!”

Teacher Spotlight

Lauren Mottles is in her 8th year of teaching and 3rd year at Pacific Ridge. Along with all of the work she has done here at PRS, previously Mottles worked as a curriculum specialist at EdGems Math, co-authoring a series of math books dedicated to sparking joy and engagement in every student's mathematical journey.

Mottles is an integral part of the 6th grade team and co-coach for PRS SeaPerch Robotics.

"I have to give a shout-out to the 6th grade team! They are truly the most supportive and fun group of people I have had the pleasure of working with. I couldn’t be the math teacher I am without them, and I am so grateful!"

From collaborative classrooms to creatively designed activities, the Middle School Math program at Pacific Ridge empowers students to see math as meaningful, memorable, and, yes, fun. Thanks to teachers like Lauren Mottles and the supportive sixth grade team, students are building strong mathematical foundations that will carry them far beyond their middle school years.