Book excerpt: How is that you can walk into a classroom and gain an overall sense of the quality of math instruction taking place there? What contributes to getting that sense? In Math Sense, wuthor Christine Moynihan explores some of the components that comprise the look, sound, and feel of effective teaching and learning. Does the landscape of the classroom feature such items as student work samples, a math literature collection, and a number line? Do the lessons include wait time, checks for understanding, and written feedback? Do you feel a spirit of collaboration, risk taking, and a sense of pride? In Math Sense, Moynihan provides a series of self-assessment rubrics to help you identify the earmarks of a vibrant mathematics community that will help inform and refine your practice. This practical guide offers a road map for taking stock of your teaching and building a stronger mathematics classroom environment for you and your students.