Before even starting a math problem, many ELL students are managing multiple layers of language and instructions. This post explores why cognitive load matters and how simplifying problem language can help students access the math.

In high school math, vocabulary can be just as challenging as the problems themselves. Many struggling learners—and especially English Language Learners—get stuck on dense textbook definitions. In this post, we explore why math vocabulary for English language learners matters, why simplified definitions and visuals make a difference, and how teachers can start supporting ELLs in math today.

I came home after the first week of the spring semester feeling emotionally drained. Nothing major happened. No classroom blowups. No admin emergencies. No parent conferences gone wrong. Just… teaching. The Weight of Everyday Teaching One student was absent most of the week and only showed up for one day. Another is dealing with family situations that make it hard to focus on school right now. Several students are frustrated and refuse to use the supports provided to them, li

If you've ever had a student who was perfectly capable of doing the math, but struggled to understand questions and explain their thinking, then you've seen firsthand how language can be a barrier in math classes. For English Language Learners and struggling learners, math isn't just about numbers. It's about vocabulary, sentence structures, and confidence. That's where word walls can help. When used intentionally, they can be one of the most powerful tools for supporting ELL

Combine that with my nickname, Beetle, and Bugged About Math was born. What started as a quirky classroom tool became the perfect name for a space dedicated to making math fun, approachable, and full of little helpers along the way.