Math: Universally Speaking

🎙️ Episode 10: Productive Math Struggle with Kevin Dykema
Join nationally recognized math educator and former NCTM President Kevin Dykema as he unpacks what productive math struggle really means—and what it doesn't. In this powerful conversation, Kevin shares reflections from his 26 years in the classroom, his leadership at NCTM, and his co-authored book Productive Math Struggle. Hear how he advocates for equitable math instruction that moves students beyond memorization toward deep understanding. If you're looking for practical, honest insights about how to support all learners through meaningful struggle, this episode is for you.

🎙️ Episode Title: Unpacking Numbers and Operations in Base TenIn this episode of Math Universally Speaking, host Ron Martiello dives into one of the most foundational concepts in math instruction: Numbers and Operations in Base Ten. Discover how a deep understanding of place value and the Base Ten structure can empower students to reason flexibly with numbers and approach operations with confidence. Ron discusses the importance of timing when introducing standard algorithms, busts common myths about teaching operations, and offers insights rooted in Universal Design for Learning (UDL) to ensure all students can access and engage with the content. Whether you're teaching kindergarten or middle school, this episode offers practical tips and powerful reminders to guide your math instruction with clarity, patience, and purpose.

🔗 Don’t forget to follow the podcast and join the conversation using #MathUniversallySpeaking.

Podcast Description:

In Part 2 of our problem-solving series, we dive into how to support students in grades 3–5 with multiplication and division word problems. We unpack the three key situation types—Equal Groups, Arrays, and Multiplicative Comparison—and explore how to set clear goals, provide scaffolds, and use conceptual models to help students reason through problems.

Rooted in Common Core State Standards, the Standards of Mathematical Practice and Universal Design for Learning (UDL), this episode emphasizes how tools, language, and intentional planning can empower all learners. You’ll hear how these strategies build fluency, support reasoning, and help students make sense of math—not just memorize procedures.

Explore visuals and classroom tools at ⁠MathUniversallySpeaking.com⁠, where you’ll also find links to the podcast on your favorite platforms.

#MathUniversallySpeaking | #UDLinMath | #InclusiveMathInstruction | #StandardsOfMathematicalPractice

In this special episode of Math Universally Speaking, host Ron Martiello sits down with co-author Dr. Jenna Rufo to reflect on their collaboration on Conquering Math Myths with Universal Design. Together, they unpack the inspiration behind the book, share personal stories from the field, and explore how Universal Design for Learning (UDL) can transform math instruction for all students. It's a candid, thoughtful conversation about equity, inclusion, and the power of high expectations.

Join Ron and Jenna as they challenge assumptions, celebrate progress, and invite you to be part of the movement to reimagine math instruction.

Follow along using #MathUniversallySpeaking and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Castbox, or Amazon Music.

References:

Martiello, R., & Rufo, J. M. (2023). Conquering math myths with universal design: An inclusive approach to instruction K–8. CAST Professional Publishing.

Description:

Welcome to Math Universally Speaking, the podcast where inclusive math instruction takes center stage. Hosted by educator and author Ron Martiello, each episode explores how Universal Design for Learning (UDL) can transform the way we teach and reach all learners.

In this episode, Situations Matter: Understanding the Structure of Word Problems, Ron breaks down the three foundational types of addition and subtraction word problems—Put Together/Take Apart, Add To/Take From, and Compare. Discover why understanding these structures early on sets the stage for success with more complex math later. Packed with practical tips and UDL-aligned strategies, this episode helps educators move beyond keywords and toward deeper, more flexible problem-solving.

Join the conversation and reimagine what’s possible in math—one situation at a time.

References:

• Achieve the Core. (n.d.). Mathematics focus by grade level. Achieve the Core. Retrieved April 5, 2025, from https://achievethecore.org/category/774/mathematics-focus-by-grade-level

• Achieve the Core. (n.d.). Situation types for operations in word problems. Achieve the Core. Retrieved April 5, 2025, from https://achievethecore.org/page/932/situation-types-for-operations-in-word-problems

• CAST. (2018). Universal design for learning guidelines version 2.2. CAST. Retrieved April 5, 2025, from https://udlguidelines.cast.org/

1. Which of the three primary word problem situation types (Put Together/Take Apart, Add To/Take From, Compare) do your students struggle with most, and why do you think that is?
   -How might instructional shifts or visual representations help address this struggle?
2. In what ways do keywords limit students' problem-solving potential?
   -How can shifting the focus to relationships between quantities improve comprehension and reasoning?
3. How can applying Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles—such as clarifying vocabulary, using visual models, or giving the answer first—help students deepen their understanding of word problem structures and support diverse learners in your classroom?

What if we told you that joy in math isn’t about being happy—it’s about the deeper sense of fulfillment that comes from perseverance, growth, and belonging? In this episode of Math Universally Speaking, we explore how to cultivate joy in math through three key approaches: inspiring courage, making math relevant to students’ lives, and keeping all students in the game.

We’ll dive into the role of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in fostering a culture of high expectations, relevance, and proactive support—ensuring every student can engage meaningfully with grade-level math. From challenging biases around speed and intelligence to implementing just-in-time scaffolds, this conversation is about reimagining math instruction as a space where every learner thrives.

Join us in reshaping the narrative of math education! Follow Math Universally Speaking on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Podcasts, Castbox, and Spotify, and be part of the conversation on social media using #MathUniversallySpeaking.

Welcome to Math Universally Speaking! In this episode, Assess with the Heart – Navigating Challenges, Finding Opportunities in Assessments, we explore how assessments can be more than just a measure of student learning—they can be a tool for growth, confidence, and deeper understanding. Through proactive planning, thoughtful scaffolding, and meaningful feedback, we can create assessments that truly honor student learning and variability.

Join the conversation! Share your thoughts and connect with other educators using #MathUniversallySpeaking on social media. Let’s continue working together to make math instruction more equitable, inclusive, and impactful!

In this episode of Math Universally Speaking, we explore Standards for Mathematical Practice #1—Making Sense of Problems and Persevering in Solving Them—through the lens of Universal Design for Learning (UDL). Too often, students struggle with problem-solving because they lack strategies for making sense of math, persisting through challenges, and connecting new learning to what they already know. We’ll discuss how educators can create flexible learning environments that support student autonomy, optimize challenges, and encourage productive struggle—ensuring that all students become confident, resilient problem solvers.

Join me as we examine practical strategies for helping students navigate math with independence, collaboration, and deep understanding. Let’s rethink how we approach math instruction—moving beyond quick tricks and shortcuts to build meaningful mathematical thinking.

References:

CAST. (2018). Universal Design for Learning Guidelines version 2.2. Retrieved from https://udlguidelines.cast.org

Common Core State Standards Initiative. (2010). Common Core State Standards for Mathematics. Retrieved from http://www.corestandards.org/Math/

Agarwal, P. K., & Bain, P. M. (2019). Powerful teaching: Unleash the science of learning. Jossey-Bass.

Descripition:

In this episode of Math Universally Speaking, host Ron Martiello explores essential tools that help educators and administrators create equitable, high-quality math instruction. Ron shares seven indispensable resources, including the Coherence Map, the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework, and his own book, Conquering Math Myths with Universal Design, co-authored with Dr. Jenna Rufo. Each tool plays a key role in designing accessible, engaging math experiences and supporting students on their journey to grade-level achievement. Some of these resources can also help school and district leaders set a vision for math instruction and advocate for equitable learning opportunities.

Tune in to discover how these tools can transform your teaching and leadership practices while fostering inclusive learning environments. Join the conversation using #MathUniversallySpeaking and connect with us on Facebook, Bluesky, and LinkedIn—share what’s in your own math utility belt and explore ideas with fellow educators!

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

🔗 Coherence Map – Achieve the Core
🔗 Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Framework – CAST
🔗 Continuing the Journey: Mathematics Learning 2021 and Beyond – NCTM/NCSM/ASSM
🔗 Focus by Grade Level Documents – Achieve the Core
🔗 NCTM Position Statements
🔗 Ludia (Go to poe.com then search for Ludia)
🔗 Conquering Math Myths with Universal Design – Ron Martiello & Dr. Jenna Rufo

Ron Martiello, the host of the "Math, Universally Speaking" podcast. Martiello shares his personal journey with math, going from loving it as a student to struggling with it later on, until he became a teacher and rediscovered his passion for making math accessible and empowering for all students. He co-authored a book called "Conquering Math Myths with Universal Design" and uses his podcast to explore inclusive teaching practices and strategies to break down barriers in math education. The goal of the podcast is to build a community and inspire the creation of math classrooms where every student can thrive.