In this article, the authors focus on five instructional approaches with a strong evidence base for the teaching and learning of math: (a) plan, model, and practice: systematic and explicit instruction; (b) focus on the language of math; (c) use multiple representations, including number lines; (d) build fluency; and (e) provide word problem…

Researchers have found that early math competencies are potent predictors of later student outcomes in math, reading, and executive functioning. This paper describes what early math instruction can look like and how some states have implemented evidence-backed strategies to teaching. Recommendations are given to State education leaders seeking to…

While an abundance of evidence-based mathematics interventions are available to support students' mathematics fluency, research suggests that they are not often implemented within schools. Moreover, national data suggests that most students in the United States are not meeting grade level expectations in mathematics. This underperformance coupled…

This article reports on a project implemented to help middle school teachers provide evidence-based instruction and intervention to students with mathematics learning disabilities (MLD) and mathematics difficulties (MD). Multiple sources--interviews, surveys, and field notes from formal and informal observations--were used to gather data on…

High-impact tutoring is a research-based approach to providing individualized instruction for students and accelerating learning. It was one of the most popular uses of federal Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) dollars, with 10 states spending a portion of their funding on large-scale tutoring initiatives. Illinois was one…

Students with disabilities experience differential levels of achievement in mathematics when compared with their nondisabled peers. Identifying and implementing evidence-based practices (EBPs) is essential to increase their mathematics achievement. However, an argument is re-emerging that calls into question the effectiveness of well-known EBPs,…

Fraction knowledge is an essential building block for successful completion of advanced mathematics courses and linked to the development of algebraic understanding. Many students, especially those with disabilities, experience significant difficulties developing fraction knowledge. Intensive fraction interventions have been shown to be effective…

The specific problem examined by this study was that it is unknown if and to what extent there is a relationship between mathematics teachers' attitudes towards inclusion of students with learning disabilities in math and teachers' attitudes towards using evidence-based practices to improve mathematics achievement for this population. Therefore,…

Effective classroom management is critical to supporting student learning and success in school. However, little research has focused specifically on the impact of classroom management on student mathematics achievement, especially in the early elementary grades or in a small group (i.e., Tier 2) context. To address this need we investigated the…

This research brief synthesizes decades of evidence to guide district and school leaders on when students should take Algebra I, how they should be placed, and what supports promote success. It highlights that placement based on academic readiness, rather than grade level or subjective judgments, leads to stronger achievement and access,…

Integrating evidence-based strategies can allow educators to tailor math instruction to empower student learning. This Spotlight will help you investigate which math curricula schools are selecting; review the disconnect between math education theory and the methods teachers actually use; learn how teachers can optimize how they introduce math…

High-impact tutoring can support student learning by providing focused, individualized support. This Spotlight will help you review research on what makes tutoring effective; evaluate how in-school tutoring benefits attendance and math scores; gain expert insights on effective tutoring practices; identify how to make tutoring financially…

Effective classroom management is critical to supporting student learning and success in school. However, little research has focused specifically on the impact of classroom management on student mathematics achievement, especially in the early elementary grades or in a small group (i.e., Tier 2) context. To address this need we investigated the…

Fraction proficiency is a critical milestone for students to reach, as fraction knowledge strongly predicts later math achievement. However, fractions are notoriously difficult for students to learn. The first study in this dissertation reviewed commonly used math curricula to determine if their fraction lessons used evidence-based instructional…

Responsive coaching at engage2learn is an innovative and evidence-based solution. This 2022-2023 study, paired with previous reports, compellingly validates the efficacy of the engage2learn program by exploring end-of-year STAAR test performance for Math and Science among Grades 6-8. LXD Research, an independent research firm, analyzed educator…