5 Powerful Reasons to Use Number Talks in Your Elementary Classroom

by Betsy Breedlove

Imagine a classroom where students eagerly share multiple ways to solve the same math problem, and you, as the teacher, don't just hear answers — you hear the thinking behind them. Welcome to the world of number talks, where building number sense becomes a daily, dynamic conversation that empowers every student to become a confident, flexible problem solver.

Teacher working math problems on chalkboard while students raise hands.

What Are Number Talks?

Number talks are short, daily conversations about numbers and their relationships. They are designed to encourage mental math, reasoning, and strategy rather than focusing solely on rote memorization. Number talks can include different types, such as:

Visual number talks (using dot patterns, number lines, or arrays)
Mental math number talks (focusing on simple strategies and number strings)
Fact fluency number talks (reinforcing basic math facts)

Number talks engage students in a deeper understanding of how numbers work and help them build mathematical confidence.

5 Reasons to Use Number Talks

1. Fosters Deep Understanding of Numbers

Number talks move students beyond memorization and help them develop a conceptual understanding of numbers. Students learn how numbers relate to each other and explore various strategies for solving problems.

Example: Problem: 28 + 16 Student Response:

"I break down 16 into 2 + 14.
Add 2 to 28 to make 30, then add 14.
30 + 10 = 40, and then 40 + 4 = 44."

By practicing these kinds of strategies, students develop a flexible understanding of numbers and build a solid foundation for more complex math concepts.

2. Builds Confidence and Reduces Math Anxiety

Number talks provide an inclusive space where all students are encouraged to participate. Since the focus is on math strategies and reasoning rather than simply getting the "right" answer, students often feel less anxious about making mistakes.

Low-pressure environment: Mistakes are seen as opportunities for learning, which helps students feel more confident with numbers.
Boosting confidence: Struggling students can find success through different strategies, making math more approachable and less intimidating.

This approach helps reduce math anxiety and empowers all students to become confident, independent problem-solvers.

3. Promotes Mathematical Communication and Collaboration

Number talks foster an environment where students share their thinking, listen to others, and discuss different strategies. By listening to multiple solutions, students are exposed to various ways of approaching math problems.

Student-centered discussions: Students explain their strategies, allowing for rich conversations about different mathematical methods.
Collaboration: This peer-to-peer communication not only builds math skills but also enhances communication and collaboration skills, which are valuable beyond the classroom.

Students learn that there is more than one way to solve a problem, and they begin to appreciate the value of collaborative problem-solving.

4. Improves Mental Math and Problem-Solving Skills

Regular participation in number talks helps students develop stronger mental math abilities. By practicing mental strategies like compensation, grouping, and breaking down numbers, students become more efficient problem solvers.

Mental math practice: Students learn to solve problems in their heads without relying on paper or calculators.
Faster problem-solving: Students become quicker and more accurate in their math calculations, which enhances their overall problem-solving skills.

These mental math strategies help students apply their skills across various math topics, making them more adaptable learners.

5. Encourages a Growth Mindset

Number talks support the development of a growth mindset. In this environment, mistakes are seen as a natural part of the learning process. Students explain their reasoning, reflect on their strategies, and grow from their errors.

Perseverance: Students learn to persevere through challenges and view mistakes as opportunities for improvement.
Positive attitude toward learning: As students discuss their mistakes and solutions, they begin to adopt a more positive attitude toward learning and math in general.

Number talks foster a mindset where failure is not feared but embraced as part of the journey to mastery.

How to Incorporate Number Talks in Your Classroom

To successfully implement number talks in your classroom, follow these simple steps:

Create a Safe, Supportive Environment Make sure students feel comfortable sharing their thinking without judgment. Encourage all voices and ideas.
Start with Simple Problems Begin with problems that have multiple possible solutions. For example, use simple addition or subtraction problems that allow for various strategies.
Let Students Explain Their Strategies Encourage students to explain their thought process, even if they make mistakes. This helps deepen their understanding and provides opportunities for learning.
Support Discourse and Model Respectful Communication Teach students how to listen actively and respond respectfully, especially when disagreeing with others' methods.
Reflect and Summarize the Strategies At the end of the number talk, summarize the different strategies shared and highlight key learning points. This helps solidify their understanding.

Conclusion: Unlocking the Power of Number Talks

Number talks are a powerful way to build number sense and foster a deep understanding of math concepts in the elementary classroom. By encouraging critical thinking, collaborative problem-solving, and a growth mindset, number talks help students become more confident and flexible mathematicians.

Start using number talks today, and watch your students' math confidence and problem-solving skills grow. Over time, you'll see them approach math with a positive attitude, ready to tackle any challenge that comes their way.

Ready to try number talks in your classroom? Start small, create a safe space for discussion, and watch your students thrive!

Additional Resources

For more tips on implementing number talks and fostering number sense in your classroom, check out these resources: