Shows
Blue Glasses Math038: Conquering Math Myths: A Universal Approach with Ron MartielloIn this engaging episode, Ron Martiello shares his deeply personal and evolving journey with mathematics. From proudly wearing Smurf stickers in elementary school after winning fast-fact games to becoming a passionate math coach and author, Ron reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped his perspective. He dives into the power of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in creating accessible math instruction for all students and underscores the role of collective efficacy in transforming teaching practices. Throughout the conversation, Ron lifts up the importance of professional development and encourages educators to stay curious, collaborative, and open to change....2025-06-1630 min
Sum of It AllSeason 16, Episode 8: The All Children, but . . . Myth: Creating Systems of Equity and ExcellenceA conversation about Chapter 8: The All Children, but . . . Myth: Creating Systems of Equity and Excellence from the book "Conquering Math Myths with Universal Design: An Inclusive Instructional Approach for Grades K-8" by Jenna Mancini Rufo and Ron Martiello to support you on your asynchronous book club journey with us. Transcripts of the episodes can be found at Season 16 Transcripts.Music provided by Purple Planet2025-06-0623 min
Math: Universally SpeakingEpisode 11: Pam Brett Helps Us View Math with a New PerspectiveIn this episode of Math Universally Speaking, host Ron Martiello welcomes educator and podcaster Pam Brett for a dynamic and deeply honest conversation about identity, equity, and the emotional layers behind math learning.Pam shares the story behind The Blue Glasses Math Podcast—a name rooted in the idea of shifting our perspective on who gets to be a “math person.” From deli counter chats to classroom breakthroughs, she reflects on the stories people carry about math and why we must challenge the idea that it’s only for the elite. Instead, Pam champions the belief that every st...2025-06-0335 minSum of It AllSeason 16, Episode 7: The Single Score Myth: Using Balanced Assessment to Guide InstructionA conversation about Chapter 7: The Single Score Myth: Using Balanced Assessment to Guide Instruction from the book "Conquering Math Myths with Universal Design: An Inclusive Instructional Approach for Grades K-8" by Jenna Mancini Rufo and Ron Martiello to support you on your asynchronous book club journey with us. Transcripts of the episodes can be found at Season 16 Transcripts.Music provided by Purple Planet2025-05-3027 minSum of It AllSeason 16, Episode 6: The Rigor Myth: Designing Rigorous Learning Experiences for AllA conversation about Chapter 6: The Rigor Myth: Designing Rigorous Learning Experiences for All from the book "Conquering Math Myths with Universal Design: An Inclusive Instructional Approach for Grades K-8" by Jenna Mancini Rufo and Ron Martiello to support you on your asynchronous book club journey with us. Transcripts of the episodes can be found at Season 16 Transcripts.Music provided by Purple Planet2025-05-2324 minMath: Universally SpeakingEpidode 10: Productive Math Struggle with Kevin Dykema🎙️ Episode 10: Productive Math Struggle with Kevin DykemaJoin 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.2025-05-2029 minSum of It AllSeason 16, Episode 5: The Answer Getting Myth: Developing Conceptual UnderstandingA conversation about Chapter 5: The Answer Getting Myth: Developing Conceptual Understanding from the book "Conquering Math Myths with Universal Design: An Inclusive Instructional Approach for Grades K-8" by Jenna Mancini Rufo and Ron Martiello to support you on your asynchronous book club journey with us. Transcripts of the episodes can be found at Season 16 Transcripts.Music provided by Purple Planet2025-05-1627 minSum of It AllSeason 16, Episode 4: The Learning Gaps Myth: Planning with Focus and CoherenceA conversation about Chapter 4: The Learning Gaps Myth: Planning with Focus and Coherence from the book "Conquering Math Myths with Universal Design: An Inclusive Instructional Approach for Grades K-8" by Jenna Mancini Rufo and Ron Martiello to support you on your asynchronous book club journey with us. Transcripts of the episodes can be found at Season 16 Transcripts.Music provided by Purple Planet2025-05-0923 minMath: Universally SpeakingEpisode 9: Unpacking Numbers and Operations in Base Ten🎙️ 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'r...2025-05-0613 minSum of It AllSeason 16, Episode 3: The Math Person Myth: Building Positive Math IdentitiesA conversation about Chapter 3: The Math Person Myth: Building Positive Math Identities from the book "Conquering Math Myths with Universal Design: An Inclusive Instructional Approach for Grades K-8" by Jenna Mancini Rufo and Ron Martiello to support you on your asynchronous book club journey with us. Transcripts of the episodes can be found at Season 16 Transcripts.Music provided by Purple Planet2025-05-0225 minMath: Universally SpeakingEpisode 8: Situations Matter: Understanding the Structure of Word Problems (Part 2)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...2025-04-2911 minSum of It AllSeason 16, Episode 2: UDL as the Antidote to Math MythsA conversation about Chapter 2: UDL as the Antidote to Math Myths from the book "Conquering Math Myths with Universal Design: An Inclusive Instructional Approach for Grades K-8" by Jenna Mancini Rufo and Ron Martiello to support you on your asynchronous book club journey with us. Transcripts of the episodes can be found at Season 16 Transcripts.Music provided by Purple Planet2025-04-2525 minMath: Universally SpeakingEpisode 7: Dr. Jenna Mancini Rufo-Conquering Math Myths With Universal DesignIn 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.2025-04-2230 minSum of It AllSeason 16, Episode 1: The Haunting of Math by MythsA conversation about Chapter 1: The Haunting of Math by Myths from the book "Conquering Math Myths with Universal Design: An Inclusive Instructional Approach for Grades K-8" by Jenna Mancini Rufo and Ron Martiello to support you on your asynchronous book club journey with us. Transcripts of the episodes can be found at Season 16 Transcripts.Music provided by Purple Planet2025-04-1816 minMath: Universally SpeakingEpisode 6: Situations Matter - Understanding the Structure of Word Problems (Part 1)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 ti...2025-04-0811 minMath: Universally SpeakingEpisode 5: Finding Joy in MathWhat 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 c...2025-04-0110 minMath: Universally SpeakingEpisode 4: Assessing with the Heart – Navigating Challenges and Opportunities with AssessmentsWelcome 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!2025-03-2510 minMath: Universally SpeakingEpisode 3: Making Sense, Persevering, and Connecting: A UDL Approach to SMP #1In 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...2025-03-1810 minMath: Universally SpeakingEpisode 2: Seven Essential Resources for Equitable Math InstructionDescripition: 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...2025-03-1111 minMath: Universally SpeakingEpisode 1: The InvitationRon 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.2025-03-0204 min
The MCIULearns PodcastConquering Math Myths with Ron Martiello and Jenna RufoUnlock the potential of every student in your classroom with insights from Ron Martiello and Jenna Rufo, the dynamic duo behind "Conquering Math Myths with Universal Design." With their combined expertise in math coaching and special education, Ron and Jenna share strategies that redefine what it means to be a "math person," helping students develop a positive math mindset and breaking down the barriers that discourage them from fully engaging with mathematics.Opportunities included in this episodeRegister for Upcoming Text Talk: https://learn.mciu.org/mathmyths/Register for Meet the Author Day on...2024-12-0333 min
Think InclusiveBusting Math Myths with UDL: Making Math Accessible for AllAbout the Guest(s):Jenna Rufo is an inclusive education consultant and the founder and CEO of EmpowerED School Solutions. She has worked with state departments of education, disability rights organizations, and school systems across the United States and 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.Ron Martiello is a learning coach in Montgomery County, PA. He has served as a 1...2024-10-1750 min
Math KnightsPam Harris and Math is Figureoutable!Pam Harris joins Math Knights for a high energy interview. She speaks to us about her math mission to inspire students and teachers to think beyond traditional algorithms and make math “Figureoutable.” After listening to this episode, take a look at Pam’s website and check out all the great resources and opportunities for educators. https://www.mathisfigureoutable.com2021-05-0358 minMath Knights“Don’t Give Up the Ship!”: Approaching the State Assessments in 2021Recently, states announced that state assessments will be administered in the spring of 2021 as we continue to meet the challenges of a global pandemic. However, “Don’t give up the ship!” In this episode, I share 3 tips to help you remain true to your commitment to students and the culture that has inspired them all year.2021-04-1912 minMath KnightsLessons in Problem-Solving from the ChampLADIES AND GENTLEMEN!
Welcome to this week's episode, where we learn about solving math problems from The Greatest! Muhammad Ali taught us to "float like a butterfly, sting like a bee" and rumble with problems. Ali's approach to boxing fits our Math Knights approach to Rigor as it pertains to Conceptual Understanding, Procedural Skills and Real World Problem-Solving.
Let's get ready to RUMBLLLLLLE!!!!! Ding! Ding!2021-04-0908 minMath KnightsRound Table Discussion: Co-Teaching with Ali Chapman, Laurie Corradetti and Kate SmallIn this episode, I am joined by Kate Small, Learning Coach specializing in Inclusive Practices. Kate and I interview Ali Chapman and Laurie Corredetti. Ali and Laurie are a co-teaching pair from Oak Park Elementary School in North Penn School District in PA. The team dives into their strengths as a co-teaching pair. They discuss how their roles work and have evolved since the pandemic. They also share current challenges, ideas in "Beta", and total victories so far in the 2020-2021 school year. Kate asks questions of the team and provides her valuable insights into their work.
...2021-03-2632 minMath KnightsMaking Sense of Problmes and Persevering in Solving ThemDo you wish to make your students better problems-solvers by making sense of problems and persevering through them? Then, this is your episode. Join us as we take a deep dive into tandard Math Practice #1 to find the big ideas from this very importance practice. Be ready to write down your take aways and share them with us on #MathKnights on Twitter. Below, you will find some other helpful resources from our discussion.
I look forward to connecting with you and discussing how we can empower our Math Knights to conquer problems.
Standards Math Practice # 1: http://www.corestandards.org/Math/Pr...2021-03-2015 minMath KnightsAsk Math Knights: How Do I Plan for Rigor?Mathknights,
This week's segment we look to answer the question of how to plan for Rigor. We explore what rigor is and what it ins't. I share 3 suggestions on how teachers can plan for rigorous math instruction and learning. I would love to hear what other Math Knights have to say about how they incoprorate rigor into their teaching practices.
Ron2021-03-1212 minMath KnightsMath Knights Round-Table with Michele Falco and Ainsley Fay-MerklMath Knights Michele Falco and Ainsley Fay-Merkl join the podcast for a round-table discussion. They share their current challenges, ideas still in “beta”, and total victories so far this school year. Feel free to continue the conversation with us on Twitter at #MathKnights.2021-03-0129 min
Math KnightsClassroom Spotlight: Interview with Alex MilioneAlex Milione is a 4th Grade teacher in the North Penn School District. Alex shares her ideas on student competency and building relationships with her students. Alex's students have grown in their confidence and competence while learning online. I hope you enjoy this conversation during our new segement...Classroom Spotlight.2021-02-2235 min
Math KnightsWould You Rather Math: An Interview with John StevensAuthor, Instructional Coach and Math Advocate John Stevens joins us to talk about how to engage and assess students in different learning environments. John also gives us some insight on “Would You Rather Math” and how to create opportunities for discourse in your class. We are always honored to have John work with us.
Find out more about “Would You Rather Math” at https://www.wouldyourathermath.com .
Check out some of these other resources authored and co-authored by John:
“Table Talk Math”:
https://www.tabletalkmath.com
“The Classroom Chef”:
https://www.classroomchef.com2021-02-1530 minMath KnightsYour Compass and Your AnchorIn his Ted Talk about The Golden Circle, Simon Sinek makes an argument for organizations to lead with their "Why." In this Math Knights episode, we will explore our "Why". As we weigh the needs of preparing our students for post-secondary life beside the impact of the pandemic on our current learners, our "Why" will serve as both our anchor and our compass.
Join us as we secure ourselves against the uncertanties that lie ahead, while plotting our course to navigate theses waters successfully with our WHY.
References:
“A Significant Number of U...2021-02-0919 minMath KnightsStay Agile by Creating Foundational PracticesWelcome to Season 3 of Math Knights. We are excited to be back to action. In this episode, we discuss 3 ways to create some foundational practices so you can still remain agile to meet your needs and your students’ needs in any teaching environment. Establishing your LMS, conducting breakout sessions, and strategically using your digital math resources can help you to get a foothold on teaching and learning, while trying to adapt to virtual, hybrid, and face to face environments.
2020-11-1000 min
Math KnightsPersonalize Your PD with PodcastsPodcasts are a great way personalize PD to fit your busy lifestyle. They are available 24 hours a day , 7 days a week and contain the latest information from experts who share your passions interests and goals. I will also share some of my top preferences for podcasts to get you started. Feel free to click on the link below to share a video message with us about Personalizing your PD with Podcasts. You may also leave a message about topics you would like us to explore on future episodes. We look forward to learning with you. https://anchor.fm/MathKnights/message2020-05-1814 minMath KnightsGlobal Math Task: An Interview with Heidi SamuelsonIn this episode, we speak with our special guest Heidi Samuelson. Heidi is a 4th Grade teacher of Math and Science from Western Tennessee. She is an Apple Distinguished Educator and the co-creator of Global Math Task. Heidi shares her journey as a global educator and informs us about how we can get our students involved in participating in more meaningful Math experiences through Global Math Tasks.
After listening to the podcast, check out the resources below and get your classroom connected with Global Math Task.
Global Math Task:
http://gmttc.blogspot.com/
Heidi’s Blog:
http://swampfrogfirstgraders.blogspot.com/
Gl...2020-03-1618 minMath KnightsInterview with Robert KaplinskyRobert Kaplinsky is a Math educator, consultant and advocate. He travels the country working with schools and educators to transform the way we learn Math. Robert is the creator of Observe Me and Co-Founder of the Open Middle. Robert is also the Author of the book “The Open Middle: Mathematics Problems That Unlock Student Thinking, 6-12.”2019-11-0822 minMath KnightsThe Math Knights’ Big ThreeIn this episode, we will discuss the 3 Big Ideas in Math Knights. Mathematical Mindsets, the Standards of Mathematical Practice and the Shifts in the Common Core can give all educators insight on how to create a meaningful Math experience for our young Math Knights.2019-09-1308 minMath KnightsMath Recess: Interview with Sunil SinghJoin us as we talk with Sunil Singh, co-author of the book Math Recess. Sunil discusses math in terms of play, struggle and even failure. He shares his passion for children to find their joy for Math. You don’t want to miss a minute of this inspiring conversation.
You can connect with Sunil on Twitter @Mathgarden.2019-06-1130 minMath KnightsA Conversation with John Stevens.Educator, Author, & Blogger John Stevens joins us on the Math Knights podcast. John will talk about the books he has authored as well as a number of valuable resources including "Would You Rather Math". Most importantly, John gives advice to educators looking to manage the number of possible resources and how to best use them to shift Math instruction.
Don’t miss this great discussion. Check out our show notes and the resources discussed at http://npmathknights.weebly.com .2019-04-2216 minMath KnightsAchieve the Core: A Discussion with Barbara BeskeBarbara Beske, Senior Mathematics Specialist from the Student Achievement Partners, is this week's special guest on Math Knights. The Student Achievement Partners created the Achieve the Core website to support teachers in delivering meaningful and equitable learning experiences for all despite racial, ethnic, or socio-economic barriers. Barbara will discuss the importance of the Shifts in the Common Core in Mathematics, while providing us with insights on how to utilize a number of Achieve the Core resources. After listening to the discussion, please use the following link to access the resources mentioned in our discussion: http://npmathknights.weebly.com2019-04-1228 minMath KnightsTransform Your Test Prep Into a More Meaningful Learning ExperienceTest prep can slow down learning and cause undo stress before state assessments. In this episode, we will talk about transforming your Test Prep into more meaningful learning experiences by following 3 important tips. Related Link: https://achievethecore.org/page/932/situation-types-for-operations-in-word-problems2019-04-0616 minMath KnightsTaking Problem-Solving to New Levels with Abby Mazzoni.Abby Mazzoni shares a problem-solving project that has taken her students across the curriculum and across the country. She integrates problem-solving, map skills, research skills, public speaking, technology and a global audience into her classroom.2019-03-2909 minMath KnightsExploring New Resources with Michele FalcoIn this episode, I talk with Michele Falco, 6th grade Math Teacher from Knapp Elementary School. In our discussion, we talk about how to get out of the textbook to engage and empower students with our favorite resources. Check out our Math Knights Blog on Weebly to see all the latest resources being used throughout the country.
http://npmathknights.weebly.com/blog/math-resources2019-03-1008 minMath KnightsMake Math a "Team Sport"What if Math were a team sport? On this podcast, Ron Martiello makes an argument for students to work more collaboratively in teams. After listening to this episode, we would like to hear how you make math a team sport in your class. Share with us on Twitter at #NPMathKnights.2019-01-2910 minMath KnightsCollaborative Problem Solving and the Standards of Mathematical Practices with Fran MargolisFran Margolis, 6th Grade Teacher from Bridle Path Elementary School, joins our Math Knights Podcast. She will share her classroom experiences in collaborative problem solving and Standards of Mathematical Practices.2019-01-1011 minMath KnightsTeacher Agility: Three Ways Teachers Can Provide a More Student-Centered Learning EnvironmentLearning is not always neat and clean. Learning is messy and there are many different pathways for students to get to their desired outcomes. In this episode we will discuss 'Teacher Agility' and how educators can navigate through the many needs of the class and adjust course as needed for all students.2018-12-1711 minMath KnightsResolving the Myth of Rigor and Bringing Balance Back to Math.In this episode, we will resolve the myth of rigor. Many teachers think rigor is about giving harder math problems. Rigor can bring balance back to math, make student learning visible, and empower students to be better problem solvers.2018-12-0812 minMath KnightsMath Knights Podacast 1: Shifts in the Common CoreIn this episode we will discuss the shifts in the Common Core when it comes to Math. 1. Greater Focus on Fewer Topics 2. Coherence 3. Rigor Shifts in the Common Core: http://www.corestandards.org/other-resources/key-shifts-in-mathematics/ Achieve the Core Coherence Map: https://achievethecore.org/coherence-map/2018-12-0209 min