When My Math Teacher Called Me Out For Doodling, I Had Questions
The scratch of my pencil against the corner of my notebook was rhythmic, almost soothing. Triangles, swirls, random shapes—my math notes from third period always looked like a sketchpad explosion. Then it happened: “Am I interrupting your art class?” My teacher’s voice cut through the quiet, half-joking but clearly annoyed. Suddenly, every pair of eyes in the room turned toward my desk. Heat rushed to my face. Later, I wondered: Was she right? Do I really doodle too much—or is this just part of how I learn?
Let’s unpack this.
Is Doodling Really a Problem?
For decades, doodling has been labeled a distraction—a sign that a student isn’t paying attention. Teachers often assume that if your pencil isn’t writing down formulas, your brain isn’t engaged. But research tells a different story. A 2016 study published in Applied Cognitive Psychology found that doodlers retained 29% more information during monotonous tasks than non-doodlers. Why? The act of doodling may help the brain stay alert by providing just enough stimulation to prevent zoning out.
So, if you’re absorbing the lesson while sketching flowers in the margins, does it matter? Maybe not. But there’s a catch: doodling becomes counterproductive when it hijacks your focus. If you’re so immersed in shading a dragon that you miss the key steps to solving an equation, that’s a problem. The line between “helpful” and “harmless” depends on why and how much you’re doodling.
Why We Doodle—And What It Does For Our Brains
Doodling isn’t mindless. For many, it’s a tool. Here’s how it might be working for you:
1. Memory Boost: Visualizing concepts through doodles can create mental hooks. For example, drawing a tiny rocket ship next to a geometry problem about trajectories might help you recall the lesson later.
2. Stress Relief: Math anxiety is real. Doodling can act as a pressure valve, calming nerves so you can actually focus on the work.
3. Creative Problem-Solving: Ever notice how solutions pop into your head while you’re half-focused on something else? Doodling activates the brain’s default network, linked to creativity and insight.
A student named Jason, interviewed for a Edutopia article, shared how his habit of sketching robots during lectures helped him “see” algebraic patterns. His teacher eventually noticed and incorporated visual puzzles into lessons—turning a distraction into a teaching tool.
How to Tell If You’re Overdoing It
Ask yourself these questions:
– Am I still following the lesson? If you can summarize what the teacher explained while doodling, you’re probably fine. If not, it’s time to scale back.
– Is my doodling disruptive? Giant, elaborate drawings that spill onto your neighbor’s desk? That’s likely distracting others (and your teacher isn’t wrong to call it out).
– Do I doodle more than I participate? If 80% of your page is sketches and 20% is notes, you might be using doodling as an escape from challenging material.
One red flag: If multiple teachers mention your doodling, it’s worth reflecting—not because doodling is “bad,” but because consistency across classes suggests it’s impacting your learning.
What to Do If Your Teacher Complains
Instead of shutting down or quitting doodles cold turkey, try these steps:
1. Have a Conversation
Approach your teacher after class. Say something like, “I realize my doodling might look like I’m not paying attention, but it actually helps me concentrate. Could we talk about how to make this work?” Most educators appreciate proactive students.
2. Compromise
Suggest a trial period: Doodle only during independent work time, or keep sketches confined to a specific corner of your page. This shows respect for the teacher’s concerns while advocating for your needs.
3. Experiment with Alternatives
If doodling truly is becoming a crutch, try alternatives:
– Visual Notes: Turn equations into flowcharts or diagrams.
– Fidget Tools: Swap doodling for a stress ball or silent fidget spinner.
– Active Engagement: Ask more questions in class to stay mentally present.
The Bigger Picture: Self-Awareness Over Guilt
The goal isn’t to stop doodling altogether—it’s to understand how it serves you. Maybe you’ll discover that sketching actually helps you grasp complex concepts. Or maybe you’ll realize you’ve been using it to avoid tough topics (like calculus), and it’s time to adjust.
Take it from Maria, a high school junior who doodled her way through AP Physics: “My teacher used to tease me about it until I aced a test on motion graphs—I’d drawn little cars and ramps in my notes. Now she calls my doodles ‘study guides.’”
Final Thoughts
Doodling isn’t inherently good or bad. It’s a tool, and like any tool, its value depends on how you use it. If your math teacher is calling you out, see it as an invitation to reflect—not a condemnation. Test strategies, talk openly with your teacher, and find the balance that lets you learn your way. After all, Einstein daydreamed about riding beams of light. Who’s to say your doodles won’t lead to your own breakthrough?
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