S04E03 - Dr. Brian Poncy on Facts on Fire: Why Fluency Is the Foundation of Mathematical Thinking

Fluency is often treated as a small piece of mathematics learning, but in reality, it may be one of the most important and overlooked foundations for long term success.

In this episode of the Knowledge for Teachers podcast, Brendan Lee speaks with Dr. Brian Poncy, Professor at Oklahoma State University and the creator of Facts on Fire, a highly regarded program designed to build maths fact fluency through short, structured, and evidence informed daily practice.

Brian challenges the common resistance to timed practice, arguing that fluency—defined strictly as accuracy plus speed—is the bridge that frees up working memory for higher-order problem solving.

Listeners will discover why timed practice only works when students are placed at the right starting point, how small sets and careful sequencing can dramatically improve motivation and success, and what schools can do to implement fluency routines effectively in just a few minutes a day.

The episode also explores the powerful concept of contingency adduction, where mastering component skills can lead students to solve complex problems they have never been explicitly taught.

A practical and thought provoking conversation for any educator serious about improving mathematics outcomes.

Catch Dr. Brian Poncy in Australia:

Tickets can be purchased here: Perth: https://www.trybooking.com/DHYZM Adelaide: https://www.trybooking.com/DHZSU Melbourne: https://www.trybooking.com/DIABM Sydney: https://www.trybooking.com/DHYZG

Resources mentioned:

• M.I.N.D. 2.0 - FACTS ON FIRE
• Chalk and Talk podcast (Anna Stokke)
• Morningside Academy
• PBIS (Positive Behavioral Intervention Supports)
• Rocket Math
• Times Tables Rock Stars
• Engineering the “Aha!”: When Discovery Learning Actually Works

You can connect with Brian:

Twitter/X: @brian_poncy

Website: M.I.N.D. 2.0 - FACTS ON FIRE

You can connect with Brendan:

Twitter/X: @learnwithmrlee

Facebook: @learningwithmrlee

Linkedin: @brendan-lee-kft

Website: learnwithlee.net

Support the Knowledge for Teachers Podcast:

https://www.patreon.com/KnowledgeforTeachersPodcast

Implementing Effective Primary Maths Instruction For School Leaders

This is a two day online course for school and middle leaders and it is all about implementation. We look closely at curriculum and lesson design, assessment, coaching and the systems that help teachers change practice in a sustainable way.

Register here