Host and math professor Anna Stokke talks to Dr. Amanda VanDerHeyden about a topic many Chalk & Talk listeners have asked about: universal screening in math. Amanda explains what universal screening is, why it matters, and how schools can use it to identify students who need extra support. They also discuss how to choose validated screeners, common mistakes to avoid, and how screening connects to effective intervention. This is a practical, informative episode for teachers, school leaders, and anyone looking to strengthen math instruction.
[00:00:00] Introduction
[00:04:17] Overview of universal screening
[00:07:51] Universal screening in math vs reading
[00:11:36] How to find validated screening tools
[00:19:32] Should screeners match the curriculum?
[00:23:31] 145 math skills that forecast success and when to teach them
[00:29:24] The problem with making screeners too easy
[00:31:37] Is Acadience a good screening tool?
[00:32:43] Comparing reading and math screening systems
[00:37:09] Recap: What to look for in a good screener
[00:40:12] Frequency and timing of screening
[00:44:18] The growing importance of math screening
[00:48:45] Addressing teacher concerns with screening results
[00:52:31] Conclusion and final thoughts
RELEVANT PREVIOUS EPISODES
The Science of Math with Amanda VanDerHeyden
https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-bksbz-13c732d
Math and the myth of ability with John Mighton
https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-22c7a-139dc72
Reading and math: Parallels and pitfalls with Matthew Burns
https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-8aj3f-1508af6
Supporting students with math difficulties with Sarah Powell https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-ciqgm-17def6b
Math fluency matters with Brian Poncy
https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-pj6z6-166741e
EPISODE TRANSCRIPT
https://www.annastokke.com/transcripts/ep-50-transcript
EPISODE RESOURCES
https://www.annastokke.com/resources/ep-50-resources
MUSIC
Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it
Podington Bear: No Squirrel Commotion
Blue Dot Sessions: Avoiding the Backroom, Momentary Ease
Website: www.annastokke.com
X: @rastokke
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/anna-stokke-3a1b4c
Bluesky: @rastokke.bsky.social
