Using pictures in math lessons can be a powerful way to show students that math “isn’t about just algorithms and shortcuts—it’s about seeing patterns and applying what we know to what is seen,” writes math coach Kristen Acosta. ⁣ ⁣ When teachers use pictures in math, it shows students “math is all around us,” says Acosta, thereby encouraging more students to participate—and altering the narrative about who is good at math. ⁣ ⁣ To find images, Acosta suggests scouring math websites, stock image databases, and Twitter—or simply snapping photos of everyday household items like beads, buttons, and coins. ⁣ ⁣ Here’s how she recommends using pictures to spark engagement:⁣ ⁣ 1. Counting, Addition, and Subtraction: Use images featuring missing pieces or spaces, like a partially-filled egg carton, to teach addition and subtraction. Ask: “What do you notice?” and “What do you wonder?” Follow up with: “How would you count the eggs?” to get insight into each child’s thinking, says Acosta.⁣ ⁣ 2. Mu...