“Witzel and Powell have produced a timely and essential text that brings much-needed clarity to mathematics instruction. Grounded in decades of learning science and framed through cognitive stages of learning, this book provides a coherent, highly practical roadmap for designing instruction that leads to improved student learning. This book is an excellent fit for preservice teacher preparation courses, graduate coursework, and district-based professional learning. Its strength lies in its usability. Educators not only are introduced to what works, but also are shown how to implement the practices effectively across grade levels and mathematical domains.”

—Paul J. Riccomini, PhD, Department of Educational Psychology, Counseling, and Special Education, The Pennsylvania State University


“This is the book I wish I had read as a new teacher—and the one I wish I had written as a veteran! It provides actionable, research-based items that will benefit all math educators, no matter their experience or grade level. A 'must read' for all who pursue lifelong learning to improve their teaching and provide better outcomes for their students.”

—Jared Lee Campbell, MEd, Statewide Lead, Mathematics Initiative, Pennsylvania Training and Technical Assistance Network