Elementary Math

What is UDL and how does it directly affect my work as a math support teacher?

The goals of this PD module are included below with links to the pages we will explore in each activity during our workshop.

• Describe the historical foundations of Universal Design and the applications to learning.

Historical Foundations

Case study in Universal Design: Wounded Warriors

• Examine the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and applications for teaching and learning

A Paradigm Shift: How can UD in Architecture be applied to Education? UDL at a Glance

• Describe the connection between neuroscience, brain research, and education.

Brain Networks: Recognition, Strategic, Affective

Brain Rules

• Describe the relationship between UDL principles and the three primary neural networks
• Understand the principles of UDL and how to engage learners in lessons.

UDL Principles and Guidelines

Principle I: Representation (How will you teach the content and/or how will students learn the information

independently?)

Principle II: Action and Expression (How will the students show you what they know?)

Principle III: Engagement (How will you engage students in the content?)

• Evaluate a lesson for barriers and use UDL principles to improve that lesson

Barriers to Learning: Goals, Methods, Materials

Barriers to Learning in Elementary Mathematics Activity

• Explore the Educator Checklist to identify specific tools to provide flexible options in your classroom.
• Reflect on the use of UDL principles in your work and in practice

Resources:

Presentation from our workshop: Reaching all learners in elementary math

Activate your Mind!

Assignment:

• Observe a lesson and use the  UDL Educator Checklist as you watch a math lesson.
• Bring back your ideas, observations and a brief description of the lesson including objectives and mathematical practices students and teachers were engaged in.
• Talk with some students, what do they like/dislike about learning math? Talk with teachers about what their favorite lesson is and why. Reflect on how they are teaching the content, how they engage students and how students show them what they know.