Welcome to another episode of "The Writing Glitch: Hacking Dysgraphia—No Pencil Required." Today, we're diving deep into the world of number sense, focusing on children, especially those facing learning challenges such as dyscalculia. Joining us is Jonily Zupancic, who brings her expert insights into the often misunderstood concept of number sense.

The Fundamentals of Number Sense

Number sense is a fundamental skill that impacts mathematical learning and understanding. It refers to a person's ability to understand, use, and manipulate numbers and mathematical concepts. Unlike procedural knowledge, which involves memorizing facts and formulas, number sense is more intuitive.

During the podcast, Jonily explains, "Number sense is innate. It's something we are born with." This statement is supported by research, including a study from Johns Hopkins University, which found that even six-month-old infants can show awareness of quantities.

The Struggle with Mathematics

Many children with learning disabilities, including dyscalculia, struggle with basic math facts, which is often tied to poor number sense. Jonily shares insights on how these children might struggle with addition or subtraction because they lack an intuitive grasp of number magnitude and relationships.

To address these challenges, Jonily emphasizes the importance of teaching strategies that enhance number sense. This approach contrasts sharply with traditional methods focusing on memorization and procedural learning. She points out that procedural knowledge is necessary but does not foster a deep understanding of mathematical concepts.

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Educational Strategies for Enhancing Number Sense

One effective strategy discussed is rote counting exercises, which can help children internalize the order and value of numbers without needing to rely on visual aids or manipulatives. Jonily describes several exercises, such as counting forwards and backward from any number, which can significantly aid students in solidifying their understanding of number sequences and relationships.

Moreover, these activities are not just for the classroom. They can be incorporated into daily routines, such as car rides or walks to school, making them practical and easy to implement for parents and educators alike.

The Bigger Picture

The discussion also touches on the broader implications of fostering number sense. Jonily and Cheri Dotterer, the host, explore how strengthening this foundational skill can lead to improved performance in mathematics and other cognitive areas. They discuss how enhanced number sense can help students in academic settings and everyday life, making them more numerate and better equipped to handle quantitative reasoning tasks.

Conclusion

Today's podcast illuminates the critical role ofToday's sense in mathematical learning, especially for children with learning challenges. By moving beyond traditional teaching methods and embracing strategies that promote an intuitive understanding of numbers, educators, and parents can provide children with the tools they need to succeed in mathematics and beyond.

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As we dive into another episode of "The Writing Glitch," we're reminded of the power of resilience and determination. Today, we had the privilege of hearing from retired Lieutenant Colonel Jason Pike, whose story is nothing short of inspirational.

Jason's journey began with the struggles of learning disabilities, identified early in his life. Despite the challenges in reading and writing, he didn't let these obstacles define his path. Instead, Jason turned to the military, a decision that not only built his confidence but also laid the foundation for a remarkable 31-year career.

What stands out in Jason's story is his relentless pursuit of personal growth. He shared with us the strategies he developed to cope with his learning disabilities, from using note cards for brevity in learning to sitting at the front of the class to minimize distractions. He also emphasized the importance of using all senses in the learning process, a technique that helped him absorb information more effectively.

Jason's journey is a testament to the fact that learning disabilities do not equate to limitations. His achievements, both in the military and in academia, where he earned two master's degrees, are proof that with the right strategies and a resilient mindset, anything is possible.

For parents and educators listening to this episode, Jason's story is a reminder to provide space and support for children with learning disabilities. It's crucial to allow them to grow at their own pace and to recognize that each child's path to success may look different.

In conclusion, Jason Pike's journey is a powerful example of how embracing your unique path, despite the challenges, can lead to extraordinary achievements. Let his story inspire you to approach learning disabilities not as barriers but as opportunities for growth and resilience.

Thank you for tuning in to "The Writing Glitch." Don't forget to subscribe and join us next time as we continue to explore the complexities of writing and learning disabilities.

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In a world where education is constantly evolving, it's essential to explore innovative approaches that cater to students' diverse needs. Recently, I had the privilege of interviewing Jeffrey Benson, a seasoned educator, author, and advocate for creating inclusive and supportive learning environments. In our conversation, Benson shared his wisdom on empowering students, fostering interdisciplinary teams, and the importance of social-emotional learning (SEL) in today's classrooms.

Empowering Students Through Focus and Understanding:
Benson emphasizes the significance of understanding students' needs and creating a classroom environment that encourages engagement and productivity. Cheri discusses her method, "Focus Triggers," which is designed to help teachers improve classroom dynamics by addressing the specific needs of each student. By acknowledging students' unique challenges, educators can tailor their teaching methods to foster a more inclusive and effective learning environment.

The Role of Interdisciplinary Teams in Education:
One of Benson's passions is creating interdisciplinary teams within schools to support students' writing skills. He believes that collaboration among different subject teachers can provide a more holistic approach to education, ensuring that students receive consistent support across all areas of learning. This collaborative effort can bridge gaps in education and provide students with a well-rounded educational experience.

The Importance of Social-Emotional Learning:
Benson also highlights the critical role of social-emotional learning (SEL) in modern education. He argues that SEL should be integrated across the entire education system, not just treated as a buzzword. Educators can create a more empathetic and self-aware generation by teaching students to advocate for themselves and understand their own emotions. Benson's approach to SEL involves making it explicit in lesson plans and encouraging students to participate actively in their learning.

Conclusion:
Jeffrey Benson's insights into education are a testament to the power of innovative thinking and compassion in teaching. Educators can create a more inclusive and effective learning environment by focusing on students' individual needs, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and prioritizing social-emotional learning. As we continue to navigate the ever-changing landscape of education, it's clear that approaches like Benson's will be instrumental in shaping the future of learning.

Call to Action:
Are you an educator looking to implement these innovative strategies in your classroom? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, and let's continue the conversation on creating more supportive and inclusive educational environments for all students.

Biography

Jeffrey Benson has over forty years of experience as a teacher, mentor, and school administrator. His passion is supporting schools to be more successful with more students. He is an internationally known author, including the books "Hanging In-- Strategies for Working with the Students Who Challenge Us Most;" "Ten Steps for Managing Change in Schools;" "Teaching the Whole Teen: Everyday Practices that Promote Success and Resilience in School and Life;" "Improve Every Lesson Plan with SEL;" and his newest book, "Hacking School Discipline Together." Jeffrey leads school change initiatives, facilitating interdisciplinary teams that convert long-standing dilemmas into cutting-edge growth and community building and creating more inclusive school and classroom cultures. He is a member of the ASCD faculty, is frequently published in education journals, and speaks at conferences on working with challenging students, integrating SEL into everyday practices, restorative practices, decision-making skills for leaders, and the science of learning and teaching. His website is JeffreyBenson.org.

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