In a world of screens and devices, handwriting can feel a bit old-school. But the research keeps landing on the same thing: when students physically write, they process, organise and remember more. In this episode we’re making the case for keeping the pencil in your math lessons, and showing you exactly how.
We get into why writing by hand builds stronger brain connections (there’s a fascinating Norwegian study on this), why explaining your thinking matters far more than just landing the right answer, and how short bursts of writing beat long, draining sessions. Then we hand you five simple strategies you can bring into your classroom this week, no fancy prep required.
In this episode, we cover:
- The research behind why handwriting boosts learning and recall
- Getting students to explain their reasoning, not just write the answer
- Low-key ways to build the written-explanation habit
- Swapping multiple choice for written responses through investigations and problem-solving
- Speedy number booklets for quick, ten-minute written practice that builds stamina and confidence
- The “My favourite No” and “Second-Chance Strategy” for spotting and fixing mistakes
- Hands-on games with a recording element, yes, even your favourite UNO activities
Are you team pencil or team screen in your math lessons? Come share how you balance the two, we love hearing what actually works in your classroom.
Rainbows ahead,
Alisha and Ashleigh
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Resources mentioned in this episode:
The handwriting and math blog post
Speedy Number booklets
UNO card game math activities
About Rainbow Sky Creations
Ashleigh Smith and Alisha Hughes are experienced primary educators and the co-founders of Rainbow Sky Creations. With more than 30 years of combined classroom experience teaching in Australia and internationally, they create practical, engaging resources that help primary teachers save time and make learning meaningful and fun. Together, they also host the Rainbow Skies for Teachers podcast, sharing classroom ideas, teacher tips and real-world strategies with educators around the world. Connect with us on Instagram or LinkedIn.
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