🎓 Transform Your Math Teaching: Clarity, Strategy, and Real-World Impact
Are you passionate about math education? So am I—though my journey might surprise you.
To my students who are trying to learn English from me…. Believe it or not, I was a math teacher once — I taught how to teach math. Back in February 2019, while living in Huzhou, I had the incredible opportunity to train future educators in effective math instruction. That experience war remarkable.
In math education, clarity isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. When students face cluttered slides or chaotic board work, their brains work overtime just to decode the layout. That’s energy not spent on understanding the math.
That’s where intentional board design becomes a game-changer.
📽️ In this video (Japan´s SECRET in Math teaching), you’ll discover how simple design principles (that can be applied to any teaching subjects) —backed by cognitive science—can dramatically improve student comprehension. Key insights include:
Principle
Time stamp
Why It Matters
Design Strategy
2:56
Structure information for efficient processing
Layout
4:43
Align content with natural reading patterns
Hierarchy
5:08
Highlight key ideas to guide attention
Representations
6:07
Use consistent visuals to reinforce understanding
Grouping
12:29
Cluster related concepts to deepen connections
These strategies are rooted in cognitive load theory and supported by the presenter’s master’s thesis—making them both practical and research-backed.
In my online course, I’ve embedded these design principles intuitively:
Clean, logical slide layouts that guide student thinking
Visual grouping of related steps and concepts
Strategic use of emphasis to highlight what matters
Minimal clutter—maximum clarity
Even without formal design training, these choices reflect what cognitive science tells us: good teaching is good design.
🌍 Real-World Math Deserves Real Clarity
Effective board design becomes even more critical when solving complex, real-world scenarios. It helps students visualize, connect, and solve with confidence.
🚀 Ready to Elevate Your Teaching?
If you're a math educator looking to make your instruction more impactful, start with your board. A few design tweaks could transform how your students learn.
Let’s make math meaningful—one well-designed lesson at a time.
🎓 Four Years: A Teacher’s Tale of Time, Friendship, Dumplings, English corner, flower in the lake, graduation ceremonies, fashion show and a lot of good memories.
Time flies when you’re teaching, and believe me—it has wings.
Four years ago, in 2021, I stepped onto the campus of Henan University of Engineering, fresh-faced and full of energy. That’s the same span it takes for most students to journey from day-one jitters to cap-and-gown confidence. Watching that transformation over and over has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.
💥 Memories in Motion Every year came with its own rhythm, like a melody that repeats but never sounds the same twice. Spring brought the Sports Festival, with cheers and cheer leaders echoing across the campus. Summer waved in the graduation ceremonies—tears, triumph, and tassels. Then there was the annual English Speech Contest, where I proudly got to be a judge and listen to inspiring words that made my teacher heart burst with pride.
And let’s not forget December: the shortest day of the year, but somehow one of the warmest. Students gathered in the canteen to make dumplings, laughing and folding dough with skill and love. I always wandered in, hoping to “accidentally” crash the party. Spoiler: I never needed an invitation.
🌱 Growth Beyond the Classroom I’ve watched students arrive with nervous smiles and military training uniforms, unsure of what the future holds. By year two, they hit their stride—comfortable, confident, maybe a little cheeky. They've started mastering the art of university survival, knowing how to balance classes, clubs, and the occasional nap.
🎤 More Than English Here’s the thing: not every student starts off loving English. Some don’t see the point. But I do. I’ve lived it. So my job isn’t just to teach—it’s to inspire. I want them to want it. That’s why I wrote a book about learning English—full of ideas and tips to make progress. I sell it online, but every one of my students here in China gets it for free. Because language, like learning, needs practice—and heart.
❤️ Chelsy: A Special Goodbye A few months ago, I said goodbye to a dear friend—Chelsy. She was once my student, but she quickly became something more. Even after our classes ended, she kept in touch, inviting me to dinner, sharing dreams and updates, treating me not just like a teacher, but like family. She graduated last month, and while WeChat is still there, it’s not the same as sitting face to face, sharing a laugh over shared rice. I’ll send her this post, because I want her to know: her kindness meant the world to me.
🌸 The Lake’s Quiet Lesson When I first arrived, a flood wiped out the flowers and aquatic plants in the campus lake. It was sad—but life finds a way. Four years later, the lake looks almost as it did back then, slowly restoring itself. Nature teaches us that growth takes time—but beauty always returns.
🇨🇳 My Chinese Journey (Or Lack Thereof 🙈) Here’s my humble confession: I still don’t speak Chinese. Yep. Still. It’s no one’s fault but mine. But hey—my native language is Portuguese, and I speak English daily. So I always tell my students, “I’ve learned a second language once. So I get how tough it is.” And that’s why I push them to practice—not just for tests, but for life.
To all my students—past, present, and future—your journey inspires mine. Don’t just study for a degree. Live these years with intention, curiosity, and kindness. Laugh loud. Speak boldly. Learn passionately.
Xinel Lee # A Catch-Up That Sparked Memories and Inspiration
A Catch-Up That Sparked Memories and Inspiration
A few days ago, I reconnected with an old friend—Xinel Lee. It had been a long time since we last chatted. She's the amazing person who first introduced me to China. I actually shared that story in one of my very first blog posts, where I talked about the power of networking to land a better job after university.
In that post, you’ll find the photo I started this article with —taken right in front of the BIEI headquarters in Beijing.
Fast forward to today, Xinel is now married and living in Vancouver, Canada. So much has changed in just a few short years! I was honestly thrilled to see how drastically life can evolve in such a short time. She even told me she never imagined herself getting married, and yet here she is—happily married. That made me smile, especially because so many of the girls I talk to on campus say they don’t want to get married. Funny how life surprises us!
Now, the reason I’m sharing this today is because during our conversation, I asked Xinel how learning English had changed her life. Her answer really inspired me—and I think it might inspire you too. Here’s what she wrote:
How Learning English Changed My Life
A few days ago, I read Marcelo’s article, “Life Before College,” and it really resonated with me. He talked about how learning English changed his life, and it reminded me of my own journey. I’m glad I have something to share too — because English has truly transformed my life in many ways.
1. Better Job Opportunities
Like most people, I started learning English in school, but I never had many real chances to use it. My real English journey didn’t begin until I got my first job. I was working as an administrative assistant at an international education institute, where I had to interact with teachers from the U.S. and other countries — and deal with a ton of paperwork in English.
That was a wake-up call. I realized how essential English is in the workplace. Not long after, I quit that job and started teaching English to children. It turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve made. Teaching was fun, and more importantly, it gave me a chance to use English every day. I gradually became more confident speaking it, both at work and in life.
Looking back, those two to three years were incredibly important for my career. Since then, English has become one of my biggest strengths — helping me land better jobs, grow professionally, and even earn a higher salary. It really opened doors I never thought possible.
2. Access to Information, Education, and Entertainment
To be honest, learning English hasn’t always been fun. It took years of effort — memorizing vocabulary, repeating phrases, and making mistakes again and again. But it does get easier. Over time, you develop a sense of the language — you start to “feel” it, and you no longer need to memorize everything just to express yourself.
If your job or studies require you to use English daily, your progress will naturally be faster. But even if that’s not the case, I have a tip that worked for me: change your phone, computer, and other digital devices to English. It won’t magically make you fluent, but it helps you get used to seeing and thinking in English — an easy way to make the language part of your everyday life.
Learning English can actually be simple — especially now that we have AI. Tools like ChatGPT can help you practice, correct your writing, or even explain grammar. For example, while writing this very testimony, I used ChatGPT to polish my words.
As my English improved, I gained access to a much wider world. I could read books, take online courses, and understand academic materials that weren’t available in my native language. I also started following English-language social media — full of amazing content, from educational YouTube channels and inspiring TED Talks to hilarious memes and trending videos. Knowing English has made learning more fun and even relaxing!
3. Confidence, Adaptation, and Global Communication
I never felt more grateful for my English skills than I did three years ago — when I moved to Canada to start a new life.
Adapting to a new country is never easy, but speaking English made everything smoother. I could handle daily tasks, talk to locals, and make new friends without too much stress. It also gave me the confidence to be independent and proactive in this new environment.
Speaking English helped me connect with people from different backgrounds and cultures. It made me feel included, rather than isolated, and helped me build a life that I’m proud of. In many ways, English wasn’t just a language skill — it was a bridge to a whole new world.
Many people say that learning English can be fun — and yes, sometimes it is. But my personal experience was not always so joyful. I went through long periods of anxiety, afraid to speak up. I felt frustrated when I couldn’t express myself fluently, and discouraged when I saw little or no progress. But the truth is, these struggles are simply part of the learning process. I didn’t have a perfect solution for them — I just had to face them. What I can tell you is: they are temporary. And now, when I look back and talk about how English changed my life, I don’t just feel lucky — I feel like I earned it.
There are many opportunities in life — don’t let poor English skills limit your potential.
Life Before College: A Time to Reflect and Prepare for What’s Ahead
Not long ago, I wrote an article about life after college—a stage full of uncertainty, excitement, and personal growth. You can check it out here. But today, I want to shift the focus. Let’s talk about life before college—a chapter that is equally important, if not more so, because it sets the stage for everything that comes next.
From My Grandfather to My Children: Four Generations, Four Realities
Manoel (my grandfather)
When my grandfather graduated from high school, he had specialized in accountancy. Back then, that was enough to land a stable job. He spent most of his life working at the train station—even during World War II—and provided well for his family. Life was tough, but simpler in some ways.
Wedding of Claudio (my Father)
My father, on the other hand, married young and started with almost nothing. But he worked hard, put himself through university, and earned a degree in Business Administration. Eventually, he became one of the directors—and part-owner—of the company where he worked. He was, by all definitions, a successful man, and when he passed away a few years ago, he left behind a meaningful inheritance for me and my brothers.
My Graduation
Then comes my generation. I earned a master’s degree, and my brother holds two degrees and several post-graduate diplomas. And yet, even with all that education, having a guaranteed job or a secure career was no longer a certainty. The world had changed. A degree was no longer a golden ticket.
And now I look at my children’s generation—and, to be honest, things are even more complicated. That’s not to say education is pointless. Far from it. But formal education alone no longer guarantees success. In fact, some of the world’s wealthiest and most innovative minds—people like Bill Gates and Steve Jobs—were university dropouts. Of course, that doesn’t mean dropping out is the secret to success. It just means that education comes in many forms, and we have to think beyond the traditional path.
Redefining Education: More Than Just a Degree
Education is still one of the most reliable ways to improve your life, especially financially. But it’s important to understand that education doesn’t only happen in a classroom. You can become educated by reading books, taking online courses, or learning directly from a mentor or tutor. The real value lies in what you learn, not just where you learn it.
Today, I find myself in China, working as a university teacher. And I see so many brilliant, hardworking students who are deeply discouraged. They face fierce competition just to get into a good university. And even after they graduate, many feel unprepared for the job market. Some keep studying—pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees—hoping things will get better. But the future still feels uncertain for many of them.
And honestly, I understand their concern. The system is not easy. The pressure is intense. And the fear of being left behind is very real.
A Powerful Solution: Learn English, Change Your Life
But here’s the good news: I believe there is still a simple and powerful way to improve your future. It’s a skill that has worked for me, for many others I know, and it still works today.
That skill is learning English.
I’m not saying English is a magic solution to all problems. But what I am saying is this: being able to speak English fluently opens doors that are often closed to others. In both my home country and in China, most people don’t speak a second language. Those who do—especially those who speak English well—often get the best opportunities, whether it’s a great job, a chance to study abroad, or access to global networks and information.
I wouldn’t be here in China with a great teaching job if I hadn’t learned English. Simple as that.
Don’t Just Study English—Live It!
If you’re a university student in China, you’ll likely spend four years or more earning your degree. Imagine if you spent just 20–30 minutes a day studying and practicing English during that time. By the time you graduate, you could be fluent. That would make you stand out—not just as a graduate, but as someone who can work in international environments, talk to clients from around the world, and solve problems in a global context.
And the best part? Learning English can actually be fun. Watch English movies or series, listen to music or podcasts, join speaking clubs, or even make friends who are learning English too. The secret isn’t studying hard—it’s studying consistently, and finding ways to enjoy the journey.
The World Is Changing—So Should You
What worked for my grandfather doesn’t work today. What worked for my father may not work anymore. But learning English still works, and it may continue to be one of the most effective tools to succeed in a rapidly changing world.
So why not make that investment in yourself? Why not take the next four years and build a skill that can truly transform your future?
And hey—if you happen to study at the university where I teach, why not come say hi? Invite me to lunch at the canteen, and I’ll gladly share some tips, resources, and ideas to help you speak better English and feel more confident doing it.
Because improving your English isn’t just about learning a language—it’s about creating a future you’ll be proud of. Also if you manage to learn English your future will not be bleak like I portray in the post: “Life after College”
Chinese version translated by AI for your convenience
当然可以！以下是您的文章《Life Before College: A Time to Reflect and Prepare for What’s Ahead》的中文翻译版本，保持了原文的情感色彩、结构逻辑，并增强了启发性和可读性，以鼓舞学生努力学习英语并思考大学前的意义。
🎬 Phases of a FINAL EXAM – The Movie You’re All In! 🎬
🎞️ Scene 01: The Attendance List & The Mysterious Camera
The moment the students walk in, they’re greeted not only by me but also by… The Camera! 🕵️ Yes, I installed one, and guess what? Almost everyone takes a sneak peek at it. Maybe it’s curiosity, maybe it’s nerves—or maybe you all think you’re starring in a reality show! Either way, before the exam begins, you must sign the attendance list. One signature to mark your presence... and a glance at the camera for dramatic effect. 🎥✔️
🎞️ Scene 02: The Sacred Instructions
Ah, the golden rules! 📜 I explain the path to exam success (and survival):
Phones OFF – Not silent. Not screen-off. Not pretending-it’s-off. It must be completely turned OFF and placed on the desk. Many forget this, and well… you’ll see what happens in Scene 04! 📵
Vocabulary section – Use numbers to match the words and meanings. No lines, no spaghetti drawings on your paper, please.
End of test protocol – Sit tight and wait for me to collect your paper. You don’t just get up and walk out like it’s a movie theater. 🎬🍿
🎞️ Scene 03: Test Distribution – The Calm Before the Storm
Tests in hand! All instructions have been given. Now the mission is simple: 📝 Write your name, class, and university number! I can’t magically guess who you are when correcting the test. If you want your grade, give me the info! I’m good, but I’m not a mind-reader. 🧠🔮
🎞️ Scene 04: Phone Patrol – Teacher vs The Tech Ninjas
Now comes the action scene: me vs. your smartphones. 📱🕵️♂️ I walk around checking if phones are actually off. That day, eight of you were caught with phones still ON!
Some of you get crafty:
You dim the screen so it looks off. Sneaky!
One student told (claim) me his phone turned on “very very fast”… the moment I picked it up to check (and press the button) the phone turn itself ON look liking it was ON already. Latter I asked him for video proof that was the case. He made a great video—Hollywood-level editing—but if you watch closely, he cut the video to make it look like the phone turns on instantly. 🎬🪄 I gave him credit for effort (and creativity),but remember this: fooling your teacher may work today, but in a future job interview, only real English skills will get you hired.
So… just study, okay? I’m on your side.
🎞️ Scene 05: The Great Exit Drama
The test is over. Yay! But suddenly… everyone wants to leave at once. 🚪 I take my time collecting the exams. Why? Because if you all leave together, you start chatting, sharing answers (yes, I know!),and the quiet test room becomes a loud subway station. Be patient. You’re almost free. Test days always end earlier than class. You’ll survive a few more minutes.
🎞️ Scene 06: The Final Heroes – Sorting Stars
After the last student leaves, I always get help from a few kind souls who stay behind to sort the tests by class and number. You are my MVPs! 🏆💪 It makes grading smoother, and I really appreciate it.
🎞️ Final Scene: A New Contract & A Simple Message
Yes, I renewed my contract. 🇨🇳 Why? Because I love teaching here, and because I believe in you.
My goal isn’t to fail anyone. I want you to succeed. But remember: I can’t learn English for you. I can teach, support, encourage, and sometimes entertain—but you have to do your part.
Let’s keep learning, laughing, and growing together. 🎓🌟
