Making Fractions Accessible with Universal Design for Learning

In this episode of Math, Universally Speaking, Ron Martiello reflects on a collaboratively designed fourth-grade lesson on equivalent fractions through the lens of Universal Design for Learning (UDL). He shares how intentional planning, precise academic language, and the strategic use of multiple representations helped students develop deep conceptual understanding of fractions.

Listeners will learn how tools like the Frayer Model, anchor charts, visual models, and structured discourse can activate prior knowledge, clarify vocabulary, and support repeated reasoning. Ron explains how moving deliberately from concrete visuals to symbolic equations empowered students to recognize patterns, test ideas, and understand why fractions are equivalent—rather than relying on memorized procedures.

This episode highlights practical teacher moves for supporting diverse learners, including English language learners and students who struggle with academic language, while maintaining high expectations and mathematical rigor. Through real classroom examples, Ron demonstrates how UDL principles can increase access, engagement, and student agency in elementary math instruction.

Whether you are teaching fractions, designing concept-based math lessons, or working to strengthen equity and accessibility in your classroom, this episode offers actionable strategies for building meaningful mathematical understanding.

Tämä jakso on lisätty Podme-palveluun avoimen RSS-syötteen kautta eikä se ole Podmen omaa tuotantoa. Siksi jakso saattaa sisältää mainontaa.

Jaksot(25)

How to Keep Students Engaged in Math Class: Rigor, Productive Struggle, and Perseverance

In this episode of Math: Universally Speaking, Ron Martiello explores how educators can keep students engaged during math learning by intentionally designing for rigor, productive struggle, and persev...

12 Touko 16min

Dr. Juli Dixon and The Fact Tactics Fluency Program

In this episode of Math: Universally Speaking, I am joined by Dr. Juli Dixon to discuss the framework behind The Fact Tactics Fluency Program. We explore how to move beyond rote memorization by focusi...

14 Huhti 28min

Welcoming Interests and Identities in Math Class

How do we truly invite students into mathematics?In this episode of Math Universally Speaking, Ron Martiello explores the connection between Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and high-quality mathem...

17 Maalis 11min

Early Numeracy with Sheila Robitaille

In this episode of Math Universally Speaking, Ron Martiello welcomes veteran educator and instructional leader Sheila Robitaille for a conversation on early numeracy and number sense development—two e...

24 Helmi 31min

Shifting the Lift: Revealing and Advancing Student Thinking

In this episode of Math Universally Speaking, Ron Martiello is joined by mathematics education consultant Dina Mendola for a thoughtful conversation on shifting the lift in mathematics instruction—mov...

20 Tammi 29min

The Power of Hope in Math Classrooms with Cathleen Beachboard

In this episode of Math, Universally Speaking, Ron Martiello sits down with Cathleen Beachboard, author of School of Hope and a researcher in the science of hope. Together, they explore the transforma...

6 Tammi 32min

Reimagining Math Instruction with Rob Baier: Debates, Reasoning, and Deeper Mathematical Understanding

In this episode of Math Universally Speaking, host Ron Martiello explores how educators can move beIn this episode of Math Universally Speaking, Ron Martiello sits down with math educator and DebateMa...

25 Marras 202524min