Conquering Math Myths with Universal Design: An Inclusive Instructional Approach for Grades K-8

The teaching and learning of mathematics have long been haunted by myths.

- The Math Person Myth: "Some people just aren’t math people."
- The Learning Gaps Myth: "We can’t address grade-level content until students are caught up with their peers."
- The Answer Getting Myth: "Math is all about getting the right answer."
- The Rigor Myth: "Rigorous math instruction is only for advanced students—it's wasted on those at lower levels."
- The Single Score Myth: "Paper-and-pencil tests are the only practical way to assess students' math knowledge."
- The All Children, but . . . Myth: "Sure, we believe that all children can learn math—except . . . "

In Conquering Math Myths with Universal Design, Jenna Mancini Rufo and Ron Martiello set out to dispel each of these myths, illuminating the path toward more inclusive and accessible math instruction that empowers students to learn, understand, and appreciate the value of mathematics in everyday life.

Through the lens of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), the authors address myths that inhibit students' understanding and enjoyment of math. The UDL approach to instructional design provides students with multiple pathways to access information, express knowledge, and engage with content, thus reducing barriers for all students—not just those with learning challenges. Using UDL, you and your students will embrace the idea that we can all be "math people."

Discover research-based takedowns of common math myths along with practical UDL strategies and tools that you can put to work in your classroom right away. Join the crusade to conquer math myths with UDL!

Jenna Mancini Rufo is an inclusive education consultant and the founder and CEO of EmpowerED School Solutions. Jenna has worked with state departments of education, disability rights organizations, and school systems across the United States and in Australia to create more equitable and inclusive special education programs. She spent nearly 20 years in public education as an assistant superintendent, special education director, and teacher, where she advocated for students with disabilities to receive services in inclusive settings. Jenna’s professional experiences, coupled with graduate work completed at Harvard University, have provided her with an understanding of both theory and practical implementation of inclusive practices.

Ron Martiello currently serves as a learning coach in Montgomery County, PA, and is celebrating his 27th year as an educator. He has served as a 1st grade teacher, an elementary assistant principal, and elementary principal. In 2015, Ron returned to the 3rd grade classroom, where he took the opportunity to reinvent himself and hone his teaching practices. He embraced social media and connected with authors and educators from across the country. In 2018, Ron became a learning coach to support teachers in the areas of technology and math. During this experience, he began to dive deeply into the complexities of math learning and instruction.