READING,
MATH, AND
THE BRAIN
NEUROSCIENCE RESEARCH &
UDL IMPLEMENTATION
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.
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.
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?
READING BRAIN
RESOURCES
Use the linked materials below to explore how the brain reads.
How does the brain read?
Visualizing how we read.
Reading changes the brain.
What is dyslexia?
More about dyslexia…
Short video series on
reading & the brain
Tablets, reading, and the brain
Reading, ADHD & the Brain
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.
How the brain learns math.
Memorization & Math
What is dyscalculia?
Math, Art, and the Brain
Working Memory and Math
Emotion & Math
Understanding Working Memory