Are you teaching operations, fractions or functions? If so, Harris has some gorgeous ideas for you—showing us the ways they are all ‘figure-out-able’ with mathematical reasoning.

Jo Boaler, Stanford University

Developing Mathematical Reasoning is every teacher’s guide to breaking away from algorithmic-centered teaching. From the three distortions of mathematics to the hierarchies of mathematical reasoning, Harris helps us understand how math and math teaching have become entangled in a tension between algorithms and reasoning, and then shows us how to untangle this tension through a series of real classroom examples. In so doing, Harris shows us that math is, actually, ‘figure-out-able.’

Peter Liljedahl, Simon Fraser University

Harris explores the limitations of an algorithm-centered classroom and emphasizes the need for true mathematical reasoning. By presenting a hierarchy of reasoning domains and advocating for a strategy-centered approach, this book equips educators with vital tools to empower students and deepen their understanding of mathematics.

Graham Fletcher

Chock full of real stories about real people engaging with real math, Developing Mathematical Reasoning lives up to its title. Harris beautifully empowers educators with practical insights and steps to help students become true mathematical thinkers, not just mimickers—essential for a world that needs confident reasoners.

James Tanton, The Global Math Project

This book is a gem that should be read by every teacher of mathematics. Harris offers a K–12 continuum of narratives from classrooms and builds a strong argument for why algorithms should not be the focus of instruction if we truly want to produce numerate, mathematically empowered thinkers.

Catherine Fosnot, New Perspectives on Learning

This book is a gift for all teachers, especially those of us raised in the era of algorithms and rote memorization. Harris walks you through how to help students reason their way to understand math conceptually. With each step in the progression, you learn how to help students graduate to more sophisticated ways of thinking and math-ing.

Liesl McConchie

From the very first page, this book grabbed me and refused to let go. Harris’s insights into the challenges of learning mathematics, as well as her joyful explanations of what can be possible when we have the right attitude and mindset, are essential for today’s educators to absorb and integrate into their classrooms.

Eddie Woo, University of Sydney

Harris critiques traditional math instruction by highlighting three key distortions about what math truly is. She encourages educators to move beyond algorithm repetition and instead promote real mathematical reasoning and problem solving, raising expectations and fostering deeper understanding for all students. A transformative read for anyone looking to elevate math instruction.

Pamela Seda, Seda Educational Consulting, LLC

Harris takes you on an adventure that fast-tracks you along her journey of discovering how students learn best. A must-read for anyone wanting to open students’ horizons and get them to use what they already know to tackle new problems.

Christopher Hogbin, Number Hive

This is a timely and, ultimately, brave book about mathematics. Harris shines a light on ineffective practices and reminds us that math is so much more than memorized procedures. Her insights may ruffle some feathers about long held beliefs on math instruction. But the invitation to reach more deeply into real mathematics will open many eyes.

John R. Tapper, All Learners Network

This book is a must-have! I grew up in the trap of the algorithm. I made it through school with good math grades because I was a good rule follower. It wasn’t until I was getting my master’s degree that I learned I didn’t know mathematics, I was just good at arithmetic.

Christina Tondevold, The Recovering Traditionalist

Harris is not only a dear friend but also an incredible advocate for teaching math in a way that truly empowers students. In this book, she beautifully abstracts the essence of math, guiding teachers on how to help students deeply understand concepts rather than just memorize procedures. Harris has always been a brilliant resource for educators, helping them uncover the ‘why’ behind the math, and this book is a testament to her passion and expertise.

India White, National Ed Consultants

Developing Mathematical Reasoning makes the bold assertion that math instruction should teach students to think mathematically. In this day and age when quick answers are coming quicker than ever, Pamela Weber Harris encourages us to slow down. Using concrete examples and vignettes, Harris demonstrates how traditional teaching methods tend to short-change development by pushing procedural thinking. This book teaches how to navigate around those traps and build classrooms rich with reasoning.

David Woodward, Forefront Education