1. READING, MATH, AND THE BRAIN NEUROSCIENCE RESEARCH & UDL IMPLEMENTATION

2. DIGGING DEEPER… The UDL framework is broken into three principles that predict major trends of learner variability. These trends are based upon a foundation of neuro-biological and psychology research as well as educational field research. As we dig deeper into the framework, it can be helpful to cultivate a more nuanced understanding of why the offer the flexibility and choices that we do.

3. NEUROSCIENCE RESEARCH Much of the research we have regarding neuro-variability is derived from disability research. How does the brain of a child with dyslexia differ from that of a child with no disability? How does the brain of a child with ADHD compare with those of his non-disabled peers? How do the brains of “neuro-typical” students compare to one another? Today we are going to take an introductory step into this research in order to better understand our students as well as the foundations of the framework.

4. PLC INVESTIGATION Three Groups: You may join any group which interests you. Visit our UDL Connect Site to access the materials for your group. Determine how your group will explore your materials. Generate a rough-draft document based upon the questions for your group that can be used to inform the rest of the PLC. Reading & the Brain 1.What is the neurobiological mechanism for learning to read? 2. Why do some kids struggle to learn to read? 3. How do we support students in becoming better readers? 4. What additional questions do we have and further research/resources would we like access to? Math & the Brain 1.What is the neurobiological mechanism for learning mathematics? 2. Why do some kids struggle to learn the foundations of math? 3. How do we support students in improving their math competencies? 4. What additional questions do we have and further research/resource would we like access to?

5. READING BRAIN RESOURCES Use the linked materials below to explore how the brain reads. Visualizing how we read. What is dyslexia? More about dyslexia… How does the brain read? Short video series on reading & the brain Reading changes the brain. Reading, ADHD & the Brain Tablets, reading, and the brain

6. MATH BRAIN RESOURCES Use the linked materials below to explore how the brain learns and uses mathematics. How a child’s brain memorizes math facts. What is dyscalculia? Memorization & Math Math, Art, and the Brain How the brain learns math. Emotion & Math Working Memory and Math Understanding Working Memory