UDL in Math (K-5)
This page features Math lesson plans that follow the principles of Universal Design for Learning, and the accompanying materials. It is not necessary to write such detailed lesson plans in order to 'do UDL'; rather they are intended to serve as examples for teachers who are just beginning to try UDL, but may not be sure where to start.
Do you enjoy sharing and have some great content to submit? Please feel free to contact me!
Do you enjoy sharing and have some great content to submit? Please feel free to contact me!
Low threshold, high ceiling tasks
From nrich Maths (University of Cambridge), "a low threshold, high ceiling task is one which is designed to be mathematically accessible, and to have built-in extension opportunities. In other words, everyone can get started and everyone can get stuck."
Given that these tasks have multiple entry points, this can remove barriers to getting started on a task, and offer space to extend activities for those who need it, which can help increase student engagement while being inclusive.
Find a collection of tasks, and articles to support the implementation of low threshold, high ceiling tasks for learners aged 5-18 from nrich Maths here.
Given that these tasks have multiple entry points, this can remove barriers to getting started on a task, and offer space to extend activities for those who need it, which can help increase student engagement while being inclusive.
Find a collection of tasks, and articles to support the implementation of low threshold, high ceiling tasks for learners aged 5-18 from nrich Maths here.
Daily MATH
Daily MATH is a great way to increase student engagement in Math at any grade level. Check out this blog to read more about it!
Here is a sample weekly lesson plan that incorporates Daily MATH, which was designed for a grade three classroom. But it could easily be adapted for any grade level. It includes:
- A lesson plan for an entire week, which also outlines each of the Daily MATH activities students complete each day
- A blank template for the lesson plan
- A set of instructions for Daily Math. I cut this sheet into fourths and put the instructions in each of the corresponding baskets
- Two Math journal topics. I cut the paper so there is a journal topic on each slice of paper. Students glue these into their journal books before answering the question. This eliminates the need to copy the information
- Building arrays worksheet
- Number of the day worksheet
Note: The lesson plan refers to other activities/worksheets, but they are not included in this package as I have only included resources I have personally created.
Here is a sample weekly lesson plan that incorporates Daily MATH, which was designed for a grade three classroom. But it could easily be adapted for any grade level. It includes:
- A lesson plan for an entire week, which also outlines each of the Daily MATH activities students complete each day
- A blank template for the lesson plan
- A set of instructions for Daily Math. I cut this sheet into fourths and put the instructions in each of the corresponding baskets
- Two Math journal topics. I cut the paper so there is a journal topic on each slice of paper. Students glue these into their journal books before answering the question. This eliminates the need to copy the information
- Building arrays worksheet
- Number of the day worksheet
Note: The lesson plan refers to other activities/worksheets, but they are not included in this package as I have only included resources I have personally created.
| Sample Daily MATH Plan |
Grade 2 Math
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Introduction to Nonstandard Units of Measurement
In this lesson, students are introduced to nonstandard units of measurement. After activating prior knowledge about measurement, a SMART board activity, and an introductory video; students will have the opportunity to measure things around the classroom and record their findings into a template that is supported by visuals, making it more accessible to struggling readers. Click to download the lesson plan and resources. |
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Introduction to Solids
In this lesson, students will watch a short video and explore solids through different centres that tap into different interests. Students will have the opportunity to construct solids, go on a scavenger hunt, play fun online games, and play a matching game to review the names of the solids. Click to download the lesson plan and resources. |
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2-D Shapes - Centres
In this lesson, students demonstrate their understanding of 2-D shapes in different ways. They will construct shapes in different ways, sort shapes according to a given set of attributes, and use proper terminology to discuss shapes. Students will be engaged as they participate in five different centres. Centres use a variety of media and hands-on manipulatives. Click to download the lesson plan and resources.
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Repeating Patterns - Centres
This lesson plan allows students to demonstrate their understanding of repeating patterns in different ways. Students are engaged as they participate in centres which use a variety of supports, manipulatives, and some opportunities to learn with technology. Click to download the lesson plan and resources. |
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Bar Graphs and Pictographs - Unit Plan
In this introduction to bar graphs and pictographs, students will interpret data and respond to questions about bar graphs and pictographs. They will also collect data to create their own graphs and formulate questions about graphs. Students will learn using a variety of tools and media. To increase relevance to students, and to promote citizenship, they will apply their knowledge of graphing to choose a food that they will make and deliver to a needy school or charity. Click to download the lesson plan and resources. |
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Grade 3 Math
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Grade 3 Multiplication
This unit introduces the concept of multiplication to grade three students. They will have opportunities to learn a variety of strategies to solve basic multiplication facts. Activities are multi-modal to enhance learning for all students. Click to download the lesson plan and resources. |
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Grade 3 Division
This is an introduction to division. Both activities are completed on a SMART board, and help students develop a conceptual understanding of how division works. One lesson also shows students how to use the repeated subtraction method to complete division equations. Click to download the resources. |
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Grade 4 Math
Grade 4 - Fractions of a Set
In this activity, students begin with a mini-lesson on fractions of a set using manipulatives. Then they will get to paint to demonstrate their understanding of this concept. Then students will review fractions of a set and multiplication in rotation of activities in a Daily 5 format, including: Math by myself, Math writing, Math with someone (game), guided Math (small-group lesson with the teacher), and Math on the computer (online fractions game). Students' comprehension of this outcome will be assessed by evaluating exit slips completed by students.
Click to download the lesson plan and materials below.
In this activity, students begin with a mini-lesson on fractions of a set using manipulatives. Then they will get to paint to demonstrate their understanding of this concept. Then students will review fractions of a set and multiplication in rotation of activities in a Daily 5 format, including: Math by myself, Math writing, Math with someone (game), guided Math (small-group lesson with the teacher), and Math on the computer (online fractions game). Students' comprehension of this outcome will be assessed by evaluating exit slips completed by students.
Click to download the lesson plan and materials below.
| fractions_of_a_set.docx |
Grade 4 - Fractions and Decimals
This lesson helps students gain an understanding of fraction and decimals using base ten blocks. A 100 flat would be considered as one whole, and students can practice covering up parts of it to gain an understanding of fractions and decimal tenths and hundredths. The SMART board file acts as a model, and then students can practice this skill using base 10 blocks, or by colouring in hundred grids.
Click to download the SMART Notebook lesson.
This lesson helps students gain an understanding of fraction and decimals using base ten blocks. A 100 flat would be considered as one whole, and students can practice covering up parts of it to gain an understanding of fractions and decimal tenths and hundredths. The SMART board file acts as a model, and then students can practice this skill using base 10 blocks, or by colouring in hundred grids.
Click to download the SMART Notebook lesson.
| naming_fractions_and_decimals_from_base_ten.notebook |
Grade 4 - Adding and Subtracting Decimal Tenths
This lesson introduces students to using a number line to add and subtract numbers with decimal tenths.
Click to download the SMART Notebook lesson.
This lesson introduces students to using a number line to add and subtract numbers with decimal tenths.
Click to download the SMART Notebook lesson.
| adding_and_subtracting_decimal_tenths.notebook |
