{"ID":519,"title":"Fraction Ball","altTitle":"Fraction Ball","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/project\/fraction-ball\/","slug":"fraction-ball","content":"<!-- wp:acf\/feature-row {\"name\":\"acf\/feature-row\",\"data\":{\"feature_row_headline\":\"Project Approach\",\"_feature_row_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_headline\",\"feature_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball\u2019s approach weaves together math, executive function skills, and equity to help students deepen their understanding of rational numbers through outdoor games and classroom activities. \",\"_feature_row_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_subheading\",\"feature_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_feature_row_buttons\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_buttons\",\"feature_row_card_type\":\"category_card\",\"_feature_row_card_type\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_card_type\",\"feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"Math.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"Mathematics\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"Playful embodied cognition approach to rational number understanding in grades 4\u20135, including fraction magnitude, equivalence, addition\/subtraction, and conversions.\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"Executive-Function.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"Executive Function Skills\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eOpportunities to adaptively monitor, plan, update, and shift thinking within reasoning about rational numbers in basketball games and strategies.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_2_icon\":\"Equity.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_2_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_2_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_2_headline\":\"Equitable Learning Experiences\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eImproving math-related emotions and teamwork through collaborative learning. Team roles provide opportunities to participate in a variety of ways, ensuring that all students, including multilingual learners, can be involved.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards\":3,\"_feature_row_cards\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards\",\"feature_row_padding\":\"both\",\"_feature_row_padding\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_padding\",\"feature_row\":\"\",\"_feature_row\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb0188b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/stat-row {\"name\":\"acf\/stat-row\",\"data\":{\"stat_row_headline\":\"Project Impact \",\"_stat_row_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_headline\",\"stat_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball has produced measurable impact in classrooms, reaching thousands of students and educators, while contributing research findings to advance math education.\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"4,400\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"students reached through Fraction Ball\u2019s work with the EF+Math program\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"23\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"school partners involved in research, development, co-design, and evaluation \\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"45+\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"publications and resources disseminated with Fraction Ball\u2019s learnings\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container\":3,\"_stat_row_stat_container\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container\",\"stat_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_stat_row_buttons\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_buttons\",\"stat_row_background_image\":1414,\"_stat_row_background_image\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_background_image\",\"stat_row\":\"\",\"_stat_row\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb018de\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-list {\"name\":\"acf\/text-list\",\"data\":{\"text_list_headline\":\"Key Insights and Innovations \",\"_text_list_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"Physical movement makes learning fractions collaborative and joyful\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/brilliantfuture.uci.edu\/fraction-ball-math-game-spreads-with-help-of-philanthropy\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003ereimagines the schoolyard\\u003c\/a\\u003e as a place for learning by overlaying fraction and decimal markings onto an existing basketball court that becomes the basis for Fraction Ball\u2019s court-based games. The traditional 3-point arc becomes 1 point, while smaller arcs represent fractional points. A number line tracks the score, allowing students to visualize magnitude and practice converting between fractions and decimals as they play. This embodied learning approach\u2014where physical movement connects directly to mathematical concepts\u2014decreases math anxiety while building rational number understanding, creating an environment for students where math can be collaborative and joyful.\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball leads to positive impacts on  fraction learning and contextualized EF skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"Findings from across two independent evaluation studies were consistent in showing that Fraction Ball had statistically significant, positive impacts on measures of fraction learning and contextualized EF skills. Notably, \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/osf.io\/najd6\/files\/mf7n9\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eevaluation study findings from 2024-25\\u003c\/a\\u003e showed that students who used Fraction Ball performed significantly better on an overall assessment of fraction learning and improved by more than 12-percentile-points on fractions-to-decimals conversion items, when compared to students who did not use Fraction Ball. Across both studies, students who used Fraction Ball also demonstrated stronger planning skills on a measure of EF skills in a math-based context.\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"Bottle Cap Bonanza: Student-designed game connects the court to the classroom\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"Students from an \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-the-femineers\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eall-female engineering afterschool club\\u003c\/a\\u003e in Southern California invented \\u003ci\\u003eBottle Cap Bonanza\\u003c\/i\\u003e\u2014a tabletop game that teaches fraction concepts through shuffleboard-style play using everyday materials like bottle caps and a poster board. Recognizing the value of this student-created innovation, the Fraction Ball team integrated it as a core component of their classroom activities, illustrating how co-design can elevate student voice and create more effective approaches to math learning.\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball empowers teachers to engage in student-centered, collaborative learning\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball creates space for interactive, collaborative problem solving where students lead with confidence. When teachers step back and allow students to own the learning on the court\u2014making decisions, collaborating with peers, and discovering mathematical connections\u2014their \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/www.k12dive.com\/news\/students-math-fractions-decimals-play-executive-function-California\/722657\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003einstructional approach\\u003c\/a\\u003e fundamentally shifts. Teachers see new levels of teamwork, sportsmanship, and joy that ripple beyond the court, nourishing academic growth and uniquely human skills. They report that this experience has changed how they think about delivering math instruction in their classroom, inspiring them to bring more student-centered, collaborative practices to other lessons and learning contexts.\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"Playful assessment captures both math and executive function skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"The \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly-video-game-demo\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eFraction Ball \\u0022Exactly\u201d video game\\u003c\/a\\u003e offers educators valuable insights into their students\u2019 learning through a \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003evalidated, playful assessment\\u003c\/a\\u003e of planning skills, assessed within the context of fractions. This stealth assessment gathers data useful to researchers and educators, while avoiding testing burden on students or invoking test anxiety.\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items\":5,\"_text_list_list_items\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items\",\"text_list\":\"\",\"_text_list\":\"field_text_list_text_list\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c4b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/video-demo {\"name\":\"acf\/video-demo\",\"data\":{\"video_demo_headline\":\"See Fraction Ball in Action\",\"_video_demo_headline\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_headline\",\"video_demo_subheading\":\"\",\"_video_demo_subheading\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_subheading\",\"video_demo_video_url\":\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=6ps6nfIA738\",\"_video_demo_video_url\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_url\",\"video_demo_video_cover\":1625,\"_video_demo_video_cover\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_cover\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"Learn More\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.gojuego.com\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button_style\",\"video_demo_buttons\":1,\"_video_demo_buttons\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons\",\"video_demo\":\"\",\"_video_demo\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c94\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/testimonials {\"name\":\"acf\/testimonials\",\"data\":{\"testimonials_headline\":\"VOICES FROM THE EF+MATH COMMUNITY\",\"_testimonials_headline\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_headline\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball creates joyful, physically active learning environments where conceptual understanding of fractions and executive function skills are developed together. Compared to other movement-based math programs, Fraction Ball distinguishes itself through its intentional integration of rigorous mathematical learning with kinesthetic engagement. It excels at fostering student collaboration, agency, and conceptual thinking.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"Rennie Center for Education Research and Policy, EF+Math Competitive Product Analysis\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"\\u0022Being able to engage in Fraction Ball as a teacher made me feel seen and I appreciated that my kids were finally getting seen. Their voices, and my voice, were being elevated in research, and I was excited to learn that the communities that I serve (primarily Black and Brown students) were going to finally make it into research, and have a space in that community of researchers.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"Lourdes Acevedo-Farag, R\\u0026D project team member\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball ran so smoothly this year, based on our suggestions from last year... We felt super valued, and we were able to execute the lessons with fidelity, based on our suggestions. My opinion and my voice mattered.\u201d \",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"Julie Laguna-Caturegli, district partner\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes\":3,\"_testimonials_quotes\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes\",\"testimonials\":\"\",\"_testimonials\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cb6\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/featured-resources {\"name\":\"acf\/featured-resources\",\"data\":{\"featured_resources_headline\":\"Research Highlights\",\"_featured_resources_headline\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_headline\",\"featured_resources_resources\":[\"910\",\"992\",\"1009\",\"1079\"],\"_featured_resources_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_resources\",\"featured_resources\":\"\",\"_featured_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cc9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/staff-teaser-grid {\"name\":\"acf\/staff-teaser-grid\",\"data\":{\"staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"Project Team\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_headline\",\"staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":[\"653\",\"654\",\"655\",\"656\",\"657\",\"659\",\"658\",\"661\",\"660\",\"662\",\"663\",\"664\",\"665\",\"666\",\"667\",\"668\",\"669\",\"670\",\"671\",\"566\",\"672\",\"673\",\"562\",\"674\",\"675\",\"676\"],\"_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01ce9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-row {\"name\":\"acf\/text-row\",\"data\":{\"text_row_headline\":\"Acknowledgments \",\"_text_row_headline\":\"field_text_row_text_row_headline\",\"text_row_subheading\":\"\",\"_text_row_subheading\":\"field_text_row_text_row_subheading\",\"text_row_content\":\"Fraction Ball thrives because of the educators, students, administrators, and community partners who bring playful math learning to life. We are especially grateful to the Santa Ana Unified School District, El Rancho Unified School District, Lynwood Unified School District, and El Sol Academy\u2014the community where Fraction Ball first took shape. Their commitment to joyful, equitable math learning continues to guide and inspire the work.\\r\\n\\r\\nWe also gratefully acknowledge the leadership of the University of California, Irvine, in partnership with Juego!.\",\"_text_row_content\":\"field_text_row_text_row_content\",\"text_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_text_row_buttons\":\"field_text_row_text_row_buttons\",\"text_row_alignment\":\"left\",\"_text_row_alignment\":\"field_text_row_text_row_alignment\",\"text_row\":\"\",\"_text_row\":\"field_text_row_text_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d09\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/full-width-cta {\"name\":\"acf\/full-width-cta\",\"data\":{\"full_width_cta_headline\":\"Explore Our R\\u0026D Projects\",\"_full_width_cta_headline\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_headline\",\"full_width_cta_subheading\":\"The EF+Math portfolio of R\\u0026D projects developed innovative math learning products and advanced research on mathematics learning, executive function skills, and equitable learning experiences using inclusive R\\u0026D methods.\",\"_full_width_cta_subheading\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_subheading\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"View All R\\u0026D Projects\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/projects\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button_style\",\"full_width_cta_buttons\":1,\"_full_width_cta_buttons\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons\",\"full_width_cta\":\"\",\"_full_width_cta\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d26\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","description":"","objectType":"Project","project-type":[{"name":"Evaluation 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With its focus on embodied play, joy, teamwork, and collaboration, Fraction Ball focuses on developing the whole child\u2014body, mind, and heart\u2014as students work together as members of their classroom community.<\/p>\n","project_description":"<p>Through a comprehensive 16-lesson unit, students learn critical fraction and decimal concepts, including magnitude comparison, addition, and converting between representations. Fraction Ball includes both classroom lessons and basketball court-based games, co-designed with teachers and students to ensure the activities are engaging and practical for classroom use. The program integrates rational number concepts into games played on colorful courts marked with fraction and decimal arcs, alongside life-sized number lines for scoring. Students play as a team, rotating through different positions to take on roles like shooting the ball, tracking points, and keeping score. 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Insights and Innovations ","_text_list_headline":"field_text_list_text_list_headline","text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline":"Physical movement makes learning fractions collaborative and joyful","_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline":"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline","text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading":"Fraction Ball <a href=\"https:\/\/brilliantfuture.uci.edu\/fraction-ball-math-game-spreads-with-help-of-philanthropy\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">reimagines the schoolyard<\/a> as a place for learning by overlaying fraction and decimal markings onto an existing basketball court that becomes the basis for Fraction Ball\u2019s court-based games. The traditional 3-point arc becomes 1 point, while smaller arcs represent fractional points. A number line tracks the score, allowing students to visualize magnitude and practice converting between fractions and decimals as they play. This embodied learning approach\u2014where physical movement connects directly to mathematical concepts\u2014decreases math anxiety while building rational number understanding, creating an environment for students where math can be collaborative and joyful.","_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading":"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading","text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline":"Fraction Ball leads to positive impacts on  fraction learning and contextualized EF skills","_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline":"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline","text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading":"Findings from across two independent evaluation studies were consistent in showing that Fraction Ball had statistically significant, positive impacts on measures of fraction learning and contextualized EF skills. Notably, <a href=\"https:\/\/osf.io\/najd6\/files\/mf7n9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">evaluation study findings from 2024-25<\/a> showed that students who used Fraction Ball performed significantly better on an overall assessment of fraction learning and improved by more than 12-percentile-points on fractions-to-decimals conversion items, when compared to students who did not use Fraction Ball. Across both studies, students who used Fraction Ball also demonstrated stronger planning skills on a measure of EF skills in a math-based context.","_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading":"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading","text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline":"Bottle Cap Bonanza: Student-designed game connects the court to the classroom","_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline":"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline","text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading":"Students from an <a href=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-the-femineers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">all-female engineering afterschool club<\/a> in Southern California invented <i>Bottle Cap Bonanza<\/i>\u2014a tabletop game that teaches fraction concepts through shuffleboard-style play using everyday materials like bottle caps and a poster board. Recognizing the value of this student-created innovation, the Fraction Ball team integrated it as a core component of their classroom activities, illustrating how co-design can elevate student voice and create more effective approaches to math learning.","_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading":"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading","text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline":"Fraction Ball empowers teachers to engage in student-centered, collaborative learning","_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline":"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline","text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading":"Fraction Ball creates space for interactive, collaborative problem solving where students lead with confidence. When teachers step back and allow students to own the learning on the court\u2014making decisions, collaborating with peers, and discovering mathematical connections\u2014their <a href=\"https:\/\/www.k12dive.com\/news\/students-math-fractions-decimals-play-executive-function-California\/722657\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">instructional approach<\/a> fundamentally shifts. Teachers see new levels of teamwork, sportsmanship, and joy that ripple beyond the court, nourishing academic growth and uniquely human skills. They report that this experience has changed how they think about delivering math instruction in their classroom, inspiring them to bring more student-centered, collaborative practices to other lessons and learning contexts.","_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading":"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading","text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline":"Playful assessment captures both math and executive function skills","_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline":"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline","text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading":"The <a href=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly-video-game-demo\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Fraction Ball \"Exactly\u201d video game<\/a> offers educators valuable insights into their students\u2019 learning through a <a href=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">validated, playful assessment<\/a> of planning skills, assessed within the context of fractions. This stealth assessment gathers data useful to researchers and educators, while avoiding testing burden on students or invoking test anxiety.","_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading":"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading","text_list_list_items":5,"_text_list_list_items":"field_text_list_text_list_list_items","text_list":"","_text_list":"field_text_list_text_list"},"mode":"edit","id":"acf-block-69a63dfb01c4b"},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"","innerContent":[],"name":"text-list","data":{"text_list":{"headline":"Key Insights and Innovations ","list_items":[{"list_item_headline":"Physical movement makes learning fractions collaborative and joyful","list_item_subheading":"<p>Fraction Ball <a href=\"https:\/\/brilliantfuture.uci.edu\/fraction-ball-math-game-spreads-with-help-of-philanthropy\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">reimagines the schoolyard<\/a> as a place for learning by overlaying fraction and decimal markings onto an existing basketball court that becomes the basis for Fraction Ball\u2019s court-based games. The traditional 3-point arc becomes 1 point, while smaller arcs represent fractional points. A number line tracks the score, allowing students to visualize magnitude and practice converting between fractions and decimals as they play. This embodied learning approach\u2014where physical movement connects directly to mathematical concepts\u2014decreases math anxiety while building rational number understanding, creating an environment for students where math can be collaborative and joyful.<\/p>\n"},{"list_item_headline":"Fraction Ball leads to positive impacts on  fraction learning and contextualized EF skills","list_item_subheading":"<p>Findings from across two independent evaluation studies were consistent in showing that Fraction Ball had statistically significant, positive impacts on measures of fraction learning and contextualized EF skills. Notably, <a href=\"https:\/\/osf.io\/najd6\/files\/mf7n9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">evaluation study findings from 2024-25<\/a> showed that students who used Fraction Ball performed significantly better on an overall assessment of fraction learning and improved by more than 12-percentile-points on fractions-to-decimals conversion items, when compared to students who did not use Fraction Ball. Across both studies, students who used Fraction Ball also demonstrated stronger planning skills on a measure of EF skills in a math-based context.<\/p>\n"},{"list_item_headline":"Bottle Cap Bonanza: Student-designed game connects the court to the classroom","list_item_subheading":"<p>Students from an <a href=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-the-femineers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">all-female engineering afterschool club<\/a> in Southern California invented <i>Bottle Cap Bonanza<\/i>\u2014a tabletop game that teaches fraction concepts through shuffleboard-style play using everyday materials like bottle caps and a poster board. Recognizing the value of this student-created innovation, the Fraction Ball team integrated it as a core component of their classroom activities, illustrating how co-design can elevate student voice and create more effective approaches to math learning.<\/p>\n"},{"list_item_headline":"Fraction Ball empowers teachers to engage in student-centered, collaborative learning","list_item_subheading":"<p>Fraction Ball creates space for interactive, collaborative problem solving where students lead with confidence. When teachers step back and allow students to own the learning on the court\u2014making decisions, collaborating with peers, and discovering mathematical connections\u2014their <a href=\"https:\/\/www.k12dive.com\/news\/students-math-fractions-decimals-play-executive-function-California\/722657\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">instructional approach<\/a> fundamentally shifts. 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Team roles provide opportunities to participate in a variety of ways, ensuring that all students, including multilingual learners, can be involved.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards\":3,\"_feature_row_cards\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards\",\"feature_row_padding\":\"both\",\"_feature_row_padding\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_padding\",\"feature_row\":\"\",\"_feature_row\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb0188b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/stat-row {\"name\":\"acf\/stat-row\",\"data\":{\"stat_row_headline\":\"Project Impact \",\"_stat_row_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_headline\",\"stat_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball has produced measurable impact in classrooms, reaching thousands of students and educators, while contributing research findings to advance math education.\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"4,400\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"students reached through Fraction Ball\u2019s work with the EF+Math program\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"23\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"school partners involved in research, development, co-design, and evaluation \\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"45+\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"publications and resources disseminated with Fraction Ball\u2019s learnings\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container\":3,\"_stat_row_stat_container\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container\",\"stat_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_stat_row_buttons\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_buttons\",\"stat_row_background_image\":1414,\"_stat_row_background_image\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_background_image\",\"stat_row\":\"\",\"_stat_row\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb018de\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-list {\"name\":\"acf\/text-list\",\"data\":{\"text_list_headline\":\"Key Insights and Innovations \",\"_text_list_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"Physical movement makes learning fractions collaborative and joyful\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/brilliantfuture.uci.edu\/fraction-ball-math-game-spreads-with-help-of-philanthropy\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003ereimagines the schoolyard\\u003c\/a\\u003e as a place for learning by overlaying fraction and decimal markings onto an existing basketball court that becomes the basis for Fraction Ball\u2019s court-based games. The traditional 3-point arc becomes 1 point, while smaller arcs represent fractional points. A number line tracks the score, allowing students to visualize magnitude and practice converting between fractions and decimals as they play. This embodied learning approach\u2014where physical movement connects directly to mathematical concepts\u2014decreases math anxiety while building rational number understanding, creating an environment for students where math can be collaborative and joyful.\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball leads to positive impacts on  fraction learning and contextualized EF skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"Findings from across two independent evaluation studies were consistent in showing that Fraction Ball had statistically significant, positive impacts on measures of fraction learning and contextualized EF skills. Notably, \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/osf.io\/najd6\/files\/mf7n9\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eevaluation study findings from 2024-25\\u003c\/a\\u003e showed that students who used Fraction Ball performed significantly better on an overall assessment of fraction learning and improved by more than 12-percentile-points on fractions-to-decimals conversion items, when compared to students who did not use Fraction Ball. Across both studies, students who used Fraction Ball also demonstrated stronger planning skills on a measure of EF skills in a math-based context.\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"Bottle Cap Bonanza: Student-designed game connects the court to the classroom\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"Students from an \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-the-femineers\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eall-female engineering afterschool club\\u003c\/a\\u003e in Southern California invented \\u003ci\\u003eBottle Cap Bonanza\\u003c\/i\\u003e\u2014a tabletop game that teaches fraction concepts through shuffleboard-style play using everyday materials like bottle caps and a poster board. Recognizing the value of this student-created innovation, the Fraction Ball team integrated it as a core component of their classroom activities, illustrating how co-design can elevate student voice and create more effective approaches to math learning.\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball empowers teachers to engage in student-centered, collaborative learning\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball creates space for interactive, collaborative problem solving where students lead with confidence. When teachers step back and allow students to own the learning on the court\u2014making decisions, collaborating with peers, and discovering mathematical connections\u2014their \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/www.k12dive.com\/news\/students-math-fractions-decimals-play-executive-function-California\/722657\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003einstructional approach\\u003c\/a\\u003e fundamentally shifts. Teachers see new levels of teamwork, sportsmanship, and joy that ripple beyond the court, nourishing academic growth and uniquely human skills. They report that this experience has changed how they think about delivering math instruction in their classroom, inspiring them to bring more student-centered, collaborative practices to other lessons and learning contexts.\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"Playful assessment captures both math and executive function skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"The \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly-video-game-demo\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eFraction Ball \\u0022Exactly\u201d video game\\u003c\/a\\u003e offers educators valuable insights into their students\u2019 learning through a \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003evalidated, playful assessment\\u003c\/a\\u003e of planning skills, assessed within the context of fractions. This stealth assessment gathers data useful to researchers and educators, while avoiding testing burden on students or invoking test anxiety.\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items\":5,\"_text_list_list_items\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items\",\"text_list\":\"\",\"_text_list\":\"field_text_list_text_list\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c4b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/video-demo {\"name\":\"acf\/video-demo\",\"data\":{\"video_demo_headline\":\"See Fraction Ball in Action\",\"_video_demo_headline\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_headline\",\"video_demo_subheading\":\"\",\"_video_demo_subheading\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_subheading\",\"video_demo_video_url\":\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=6ps6nfIA738\",\"_video_demo_video_url\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_url\",\"video_demo_video_cover\":1625,\"_video_demo_video_cover\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_cover\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"Learn More\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.gojuego.com\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button_style\",\"video_demo_buttons\":1,\"_video_demo_buttons\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons\",\"video_demo\":\"\",\"_video_demo\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c94\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/testimonials {\"name\":\"acf\/testimonials\",\"data\":{\"testimonials_headline\":\"VOICES FROM THE EF+MATH COMMUNITY\",\"_testimonials_headline\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_headline\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball creates joyful, physically active learning environments where conceptual understanding of fractions and executive function skills are developed together. Compared to other movement-based math programs, Fraction Ball distinguishes itself through its intentional integration of rigorous mathematical learning with kinesthetic engagement. It excels at fostering student collaboration, agency, and conceptual thinking.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"Rennie Center for Education Research and Policy, EF+Math Competitive Product Analysis\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"\\u0022Being able to engage in Fraction Ball as a teacher made me feel seen and I appreciated that my kids were finally getting seen. Their voices, and my voice, were being elevated in research, and I was excited to learn that the communities that I serve (primarily Black and Brown students) were going to finally make it into research, and have a space in that community of researchers.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"Lourdes Acevedo-Farag, R\\u0026D project team member\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball ran so smoothly this year, based on our suggestions from last year... We felt super valued, and we were able to execute the lessons with fidelity, based on our suggestions. My opinion and my voice mattered.\u201d \",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"Julie Laguna-Caturegli, district partner\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes\":3,\"_testimonials_quotes\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes\",\"testimonials\":\"\",\"_testimonials\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cb6\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/featured-resources {\"name\":\"acf\/featured-resources\",\"data\":{\"featured_resources_headline\":\"Research Highlights\",\"_featured_resources_headline\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_headline\",\"featured_resources_resources\":[\"910\",\"992\",\"1009\",\"1079\"],\"_featured_resources_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_resources\",\"featured_resources\":\"\",\"_featured_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cc9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/staff-teaser-grid {\"name\":\"acf\/staff-teaser-grid\",\"data\":{\"staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"Project Team\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_headline\",\"staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":[\"653\",\"654\",\"655\",\"656\",\"657\",\"659\",\"658\",\"661\",\"660\",\"662\",\"663\",\"664\",\"665\",\"666\",\"667\",\"668\",\"669\",\"670\",\"671\",\"566\",\"672\",\"673\",\"562\",\"674\",\"675\",\"676\"],\"_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01ce9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-row {\"name\":\"acf\/text-row\",\"data\":{\"text_row_headline\":\"Acknowledgments \",\"_text_row_headline\":\"field_text_row_text_row_headline\",\"text_row_subheading\":\"\",\"_text_row_subheading\":\"field_text_row_text_row_subheading\",\"text_row_content\":\"Fraction Ball thrives because of the educators, students, administrators, and community partners who bring playful math learning to life. We are especially grateful to the Santa Ana Unified School District, El Rancho Unified School District, Lynwood Unified School District, and El Sol Academy\u2014the community where Fraction Ball first took shape. Their commitment to joyful, equitable math learning continues to guide and inspire the work.\\r\\n\\r\\nWe also gratefully acknowledge the leadership of the University of California, Irvine, in partnership with Juego!.\",\"_text_row_content\":\"field_text_row_text_row_content\",\"text_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_text_row_buttons\":\"field_text_row_text_row_buttons\",\"text_row_alignment\":\"left\",\"_text_row_alignment\":\"field_text_row_text_row_alignment\",\"text_row\":\"\",\"_text_row\":\"field_text_row_text_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d09\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/full-width-cta {\"name\":\"acf\/full-width-cta\",\"data\":{\"full_width_cta_headline\":\"Explore Our R\\u0026D Projects\",\"_full_width_cta_headline\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_headline\",\"full_width_cta_subheading\":\"The EF+Math portfolio of R\\u0026D projects developed innovative math learning products and advanced research on mathematics learning, executive function skills, and equitable learning experiences using inclusive R\\u0026D methods.\",\"_full_width_cta_subheading\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_subheading\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"View All R\\u0026D Projects\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/projects\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button_style\",\"full_width_cta_buttons\":1,\"_full_width_cta_buttons\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons\",\"full_width_cta\":\"\",\"_full_width_cta\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d26\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","description":"","objectType":"Project","project-type":[{"name":"Evaluation Study","slug":"evaluation-study","term_taxonomy_id":29,"taxonomy":"project-type"},{"name":"Product","slug":"product","term_taxonomy_id":28,"taxonomy":"project-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:03:13","attachment":{"ID":812,"src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg","img":"<img width=\"1280\" height=\"1091\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg 1280w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-300x256.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1024x873.jpeg 1024w, 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21:38:06","attachment":{"ID":"32","src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png","img":"<img width=\"612\" height=\"612\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png 612w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-320x320.png 320w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px\" \/>"},"meta":{"staff_metadata":{"name":"Daniela Alvarez-Vargas","role":"Graduate Student Researcher","image":{"ID":1733,"id":1733,"title":"IMG_9653","filename":"IMG_9653-scaled-e1770326106426.jpeg","filesize":327427,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_9653-scaled-e1770326106426.jpeg","link":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/staff\/daniela-alvarez-vargas\/img_9653\/","alt":"","author":"8","description":"","caption":"","name":"img_9653","status":"inherit","uploaded_to":654,"date":"2026-02-05 21:14:22","modified":"2026-02-05 21:14:22","menu_order":0,"mime_type":"image\/jpeg","type":"image","subtype":"jpeg","icon":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/wp\/wp-includes\/images\/media\/default.png","width":1920,"height":1920,"sizes":{"thumbnail":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_9653-scaled-e1770326106426-150x150.jpeg","thumbnail-width":150,"thumbnail-height":150,"medium":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_9653-scaled-e1770326106426-300x300.jpeg","medium-width":300,"medium-height":300,"medium_large":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_9653-scaled-e1770326106426-768x768.jpeg","medium_large-width":768,"medium_large-height":768,"large":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_9653-scaled-e1770326106426-1024x1024.jpeg","large-width":1024,"large-height":1024,"1536x1536":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_9653-scaled-e1770326106426-1536x1536.jpeg","1536x1536-width":1536,"1536x1536-height":1536,"2048x2048":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_9653-1536x2048.jpeg","2048x2048-width":1536,"2048x2048-height":2048,"w320":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_9653-scaled-e1770326106426-320x320.jpeg","w320-width":320,"w320-height":320,"w640":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_9653-scaled-e1770326106426-640x640.jpeg","w640-width":640,"w640-height":640,"w1280":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_9653-scaled-e1770326106426-1280x1280.jpeg","w1280-width":1280,"w1280-height":1280,"w1920":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_9653-1920x2560.jpeg","w1920-width":1920,"w1920-height":2560,"w2560":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_9653-2560x3413.jpeg","w2560-width":2560,"w2560-height":3413,"gform-image-choice-sm":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_9653-scaled-e1770326106426-300x300.jpeg","gform-image-choice-sm-width":300,"gform-image-choice-sm-height":300,"gform-image-choice-md":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_9653-scaled-e1770326106426-400x400.jpeg","gform-image-choice-md-width":400,"gform-image-choice-md-height":400,"gform-image-choice-lg":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_9653-scaled-e1770326106426-600x600.jpeg","gform-image-choice-lg-width":600,"gform-image-choice-lg-height":600}},"social_links":{"linkedin":"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/daniela-alvarez-vargas-phd-33b344234\/","facebook":"","x_twitter":"","email":"daniela.alvarez-vargas@colostate.edu"},"intro_text":"Daniela Alvarez-Vargas was a Graduate Student Researcher at the University of California, Irvine.","bio":"<div class=\"docos-replyview-body docos-anchoredreplyview-body \" dir=\"ltr\">Daniela is a postdoctoral research fellow at Colorado State University in the Human Development and Family Studies department. As a developmental psychologist and methodologist, she works with teachers and families to design and evaluate culturally sustaining learning practices. Daniela is a scholar committed to dismantling exclusionary practices in mathematics education and addressing the marginalization of immigrant families, low-income families, and families of color. She aims to inform teaching practices, develop tools and activities, and influence policies that affirm cultural wealth and identities to promote meaningful mathematics learning. Her research has been published in the <em data-start=\"743\" data-end=\"788\">Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology<\/em>, <em data-start=\"790\" data-end=\"832\">Journal of Experimental Child Psychology<\/em>, and <em data-start=\"838\" data-end=\"888\">Journal of Research on Educational Effectiveness<\/em>.<\/div>\n<div class=\"docos-replyview-body docos-anchoredreplyview-body \" dir=\"ltr\">\n<p data-start=\"891\" data-end=\"1282\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Before joining CSU, Daniela was a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Denver Morgridge College of Education in the Marsico Institute for Early Learning. She completed her PhD at the University of California, Irvine School of Education with a focus on Human Development in Context, and she holds a BA in Developmental Psychology and Statistics from Florida International University.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n","projects":[{"ID":519,"title":"Fraction Ball","altTitle":"Fraction Ball","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/project\/fraction-ball\/","slug":"fraction-ball","content":"<!-- wp:acf\/feature-row {\"name\":\"acf\/feature-row\",\"data\":{\"feature_row_headline\":\"Project Approach\",\"_feature_row_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_headline\",\"feature_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball\u2019s approach weaves together math, executive function skills, and equity to help students deepen their understanding of rational numbers through outdoor games and classroom activities. \",\"_feature_row_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_subheading\",\"feature_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_feature_row_buttons\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_buttons\",\"feature_row_card_type\":\"category_card\",\"_feature_row_card_type\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_card_type\",\"feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"Math.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"Mathematics\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"Playful embodied cognition approach to rational number understanding in grades 4\u20135, including fraction magnitude, equivalence, addition\/subtraction, and conversions.\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"Executive-Function.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"Executive Function Skills\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eOpportunities to adaptively monitor, plan, update, and shift thinking within reasoning about rational numbers in basketball games and strategies.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_2_icon\":\"Equity.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_2_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_2_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_2_headline\":\"Equitable Learning Experiences\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eImproving math-related emotions and teamwork through collaborative learning. Team roles provide opportunities to participate in a variety of ways, ensuring that all students, including multilingual learners, can be involved.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards\":3,\"_feature_row_cards\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards\",\"feature_row_padding\":\"both\",\"_feature_row_padding\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_padding\",\"feature_row\":\"\",\"_feature_row\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb0188b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/stat-row {\"name\":\"acf\/stat-row\",\"data\":{\"stat_row_headline\":\"Project Impact \",\"_stat_row_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_headline\",\"stat_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball has produced measurable impact in classrooms, reaching thousands of students and educators, while contributing research findings to advance math education.\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"4,400\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"students reached through Fraction Ball\u2019s work with the EF+Math program\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"23\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"school partners involved in research, development, co-design, and evaluation \\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"45+\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"publications and resources disseminated with Fraction Ball\u2019s learnings\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container\":3,\"_stat_row_stat_container\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container\",\"stat_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_stat_row_buttons\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_buttons\",\"stat_row_background_image\":1414,\"_stat_row_background_image\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_background_image\",\"stat_row\":\"\",\"_stat_row\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb018de\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-list {\"name\":\"acf\/text-list\",\"data\":{\"text_list_headline\":\"Key Insights and Innovations \",\"_text_list_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"Physical movement makes learning fractions collaborative and joyful\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/brilliantfuture.uci.edu\/fraction-ball-math-game-spreads-with-help-of-philanthropy\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003ereimagines the schoolyard\\u003c\/a\\u003e as a place for learning by overlaying fraction and decimal markings onto an existing basketball court that becomes the basis for Fraction Ball\u2019s court-based games. The traditional 3-point arc becomes 1 point, while smaller arcs represent fractional points. A number line tracks the score, allowing students to visualize magnitude and practice converting between fractions and decimals as they play. This embodied learning approach\u2014where physical movement connects directly to mathematical concepts\u2014decreases math anxiety while building rational number understanding, creating an environment for students where math can be collaborative and joyful.\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball leads to positive impacts on  fraction learning and contextualized EF skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"Findings from across two independent evaluation studies were consistent in showing that Fraction Ball had statistically significant, positive impacts on measures of fraction learning and contextualized EF skills. Notably, \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/osf.io\/najd6\/files\/mf7n9\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eevaluation study findings from 2024-25\\u003c\/a\\u003e showed that students who used Fraction Ball performed significantly better on an overall assessment of fraction learning and improved by more than 12-percentile-points on fractions-to-decimals conversion items, when compared to students who did not use Fraction Ball. Across both studies, students who used Fraction Ball also demonstrated stronger planning skills on a measure of EF skills in a math-based context.\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"Bottle Cap Bonanza: Student-designed game connects the court to the classroom\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"Students from an \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-the-femineers\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eall-female engineering afterschool club\\u003c\/a\\u003e in Southern California invented \\u003ci\\u003eBottle Cap Bonanza\\u003c\/i\\u003e\u2014a tabletop game that teaches fraction concepts through shuffleboard-style play using everyday materials like bottle caps and a poster board. Recognizing the value of this student-created innovation, the Fraction Ball team integrated it as a core component of their classroom activities, illustrating how co-design can elevate student voice and create more effective approaches to math learning.\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball empowers teachers to engage in student-centered, collaborative learning\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball creates space for interactive, collaborative problem solving where students lead with confidence. When teachers step back and allow students to own the learning on the court\u2014making decisions, collaborating with peers, and discovering mathematical connections\u2014their \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/www.k12dive.com\/news\/students-math-fractions-decimals-play-executive-function-California\/722657\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003einstructional approach\\u003c\/a\\u003e fundamentally shifts. Teachers see new levels of teamwork, sportsmanship, and joy that ripple beyond the court, nourishing academic growth and uniquely human skills. They report that this experience has changed how they think about delivering math instruction in their classroom, inspiring them to bring more student-centered, collaborative practices to other lessons and learning contexts.\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"Playful assessment captures both math and executive function skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"The \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly-video-game-demo\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eFraction Ball \\u0022Exactly\u201d video game\\u003c\/a\\u003e offers educators valuable insights into their students\u2019 learning through a \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003evalidated, playful assessment\\u003c\/a\\u003e of planning skills, assessed within the context of fractions. This stealth assessment gathers data useful to researchers and educators, while avoiding testing burden on students or invoking test anxiety.\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items\":5,\"_text_list_list_items\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items\",\"text_list\":\"\",\"_text_list\":\"field_text_list_text_list\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c4b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/video-demo {\"name\":\"acf\/video-demo\",\"data\":{\"video_demo_headline\":\"See Fraction Ball in Action\",\"_video_demo_headline\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_headline\",\"video_demo_subheading\":\"\",\"_video_demo_subheading\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_subheading\",\"video_demo_video_url\":\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=6ps6nfIA738\",\"_video_demo_video_url\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_url\",\"video_demo_video_cover\":1625,\"_video_demo_video_cover\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_cover\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"Learn More\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.gojuego.com\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button_style\",\"video_demo_buttons\":1,\"_video_demo_buttons\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons\",\"video_demo\":\"\",\"_video_demo\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c94\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/testimonials {\"name\":\"acf\/testimonials\",\"data\":{\"testimonials_headline\":\"VOICES FROM THE EF+MATH COMMUNITY\",\"_testimonials_headline\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_headline\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball creates joyful, physically active learning environments where conceptual understanding of fractions and executive function skills are developed together. Compared to other movement-based math programs, Fraction Ball distinguishes itself through its intentional integration of rigorous mathematical learning with kinesthetic engagement. It excels at fostering student collaboration, agency, and conceptual thinking.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"Rennie Center for Education Research and Policy, EF+Math Competitive Product Analysis\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"\\u0022Being able to engage in Fraction Ball as a teacher made me feel seen and I appreciated that my kids were finally getting seen. Their voices, and my voice, were being elevated in research, and I was excited to learn that the communities that I serve (primarily Black and Brown students) were going to finally make it into research, and have a space in that community of researchers.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"Lourdes Acevedo-Farag, R\\u0026D project team member\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball ran so smoothly this year, based on our suggestions from last year... We felt super valued, and we were able to execute the lessons with fidelity, based on our suggestions. My opinion and my voice mattered.\u201d \",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"Julie Laguna-Caturegli, district partner\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes\":3,\"_testimonials_quotes\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes\",\"testimonials\":\"\",\"_testimonials\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cb6\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/featured-resources {\"name\":\"acf\/featured-resources\",\"data\":{\"featured_resources_headline\":\"Research Highlights\",\"_featured_resources_headline\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_headline\",\"featured_resources_resources\":[\"910\",\"992\",\"1009\",\"1079\"],\"_featured_resources_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_resources\",\"featured_resources\":\"\",\"_featured_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cc9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/staff-teaser-grid {\"name\":\"acf\/staff-teaser-grid\",\"data\":{\"staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"Project Team\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_headline\",\"staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":[\"653\",\"654\",\"655\",\"656\",\"657\",\"659\",\"658\",\"661\",\"660\",\"662\",\"663\",\"664\",\"665\",\"666\",\"667\",\"668\",\"669\",\"670\",\"671\",\"566\",\"672\",\"673\",\"562\",\"674\",\"675\",\"676\"],\"_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01ce9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-row {\"name\":\"acf\/text-row\",\"data\":{\"text_row_headline\":\"Acknowledgments \",\"_text_row_headline\":\"field_text_row_text_row_headline\",\"text_row_subheading\":\"\",\"_text_row_subheading\":\"field_text_row_text_row_subheading\",\"text_row_content\":\"Fraction Ball thrives because of the educators, students, administrators, and community partners who bring playful math learning to life. We are especially grateful to the Santa Ana Unified School District, El Rancho Unified School District, Lynwood Unified School District, and El Sol Academy\u2014the community where Fraction Ball first took shape. Their commitment to joyful, equitable math learning continues to guide and inspire the work.\\r\\n\\r\\nWe also gratefully acknowledge the leadership of the University of California, Irvine, in partnership with Juego!.\",\"_text_row_content\":\"field_text_row_text_row_content\",\"text_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_text_row_buttons\":\"field_text_row_text_row_buttons\",\"text_row_alignment\":\"left\",\"_text_row_alignment\":\"field_text_row_text_row_alignment\",\"text_row\":\"\",\"_text_row\":\"field_text_row_text_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d09\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/full-width-cta {\"name\":\"acf\/full-width-cta\",\"data\":{\"full_width_cta_headline\":\"Explore Our R\\u0026D Projects\",\"_full_width_cta_headline\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_headline\",\"full_width_cta_subheading\":\"The EF+Math portfolio of R\\u0026D projects developed innovative math learning products and advanced research on mathematics learning, executive function skills, and equitable learning experiences using inclusive R\\u0026D methods.\",\"_full_width_cta_subheading\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_subheading\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"View All R\\u0026D Projects\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/projects\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button_style\",\"full_width_cta_buttons\":1,\"_full_width_cta_buttons\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons\",\"full_width_cta\":\"\",\"_full_width_cta\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d26\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","description":"","objectType":"Project","project-type":[{"name":"Evaluation Study","slug":"evaluation-study","term_taxonomy_id":29,"taxonomy":"project-type"},{"name":"Product","slug":"product","term_taxonomy_id":28,"taxonomy":"project-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:03:13","attachment":{"ID":812,"src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg","img":"<img width=\"1280\" height=\"1091\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg 1280w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-300x256.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1024x873.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-768x655.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-320x273.jpeg 320w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-640x546.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed.jpeg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/>"},"meta":[]}]}}},{"ID":655,"title":"Drew Bailey","altTitle":"Drew Bailey","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/staff\/drew-bailey\/","slug":"drew-bailey","content":"","description":"","objectType":"Staff","staff-type":[{"name":"R&amp;D Project Teams","slug":"rd-project-teams","term_taxonomy_id":8,"taxonomy":"staff-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:38:06","attachment":{"ID":"32","src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png","img":"<img width=\"612\" height=\"612\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png 612w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-320x320.png 320w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px\" \/>"},"meta":{"staff_metadata":{"name":"Drew H. Bailey","role":"Co-Principal Investigator","image":false,"social_links":{"linkedin":"","facebook":"","x_twitter":"","email":"dhbailey@uci.edu"},"intro_text":"","bio":"","projects":[{"ID":519,"title":"Fraction Ball","altTitle":"Fraction Ball","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/project\/fraction-ball\/","slug":"fraction-ball","content":"<!-- wp:acf\/feature-row {\"name\":\"acf\/feature-row\",\"data\":{\"feature_row_headline\":\"Project Approach\",\"_feature_row_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_headline\",\"feature_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball\u2019s approach weaves together math, executive function skills, and equity to help students deepen their understanding of rational numbers through outdoor games and classroom activities. \",\"_feature_row_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_subheading\",\"feature_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_feature_row_buttons\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_buttons\",\"feature_row_card_type\":\"category_card\",\"_feature_row_card_type\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_card_type\",\"feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"Math.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"Mathematics\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"Playful embodied cognition approach to rational number understanding in grades 4\u20135, including fraction magnitude, equivalence, addition\/subtraction, and conversions.\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"Executive-Function.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"Executive Function Skills\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eOpportunities to adaptively monitor, plan, update, and shift thinking within reasoning about rational numbers in basketball games and strategies.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_2_icon\":\"Equity.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_2_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_2_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_2_headline\":\"Equitable Learning Experiences\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eImproving math-related emotions and teamwork through collaborative learning. 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The traditional 3-point arc becomes 1 point, while smaller arcs represent fractional points. A number line tracks the score, allowing students to visualize magnitude and practice converting between fractions and decimals as they play. This embodied learning approach\u2014where physical movement connects directly to mathematical concepts\u2014decreases math anxiety while building rational number understanding, creating an environment for students where math can be collaborative and joyful.\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball leads to positive impacts on  fraction learning and contextualized EF skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"Findings from across two independent evaluation studies were consistent in showing that Fraction Ball had statistically significant, positive impacts on measures of fraction learning and contextualized EF skills. Notably, \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/osf.io\/najd6\/files\/mf7n9\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eevaluation study findings from 2024-25\\u003c\/a\\u003e showed that students who used Fraction Ball performed significantly better on an overall assessment of fraction learning and improved by more than 12-percentile-points on fractions-to-decimals conversion items, when compared to students who did not use Fraction Ball. Across both studies, students who used Fraction Ball also demonstrated stronger planning skills on a measure of EF skills in a math-based context.\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"Bottle Cap Bonanza: Student-designed game connects the court to the classroom\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"Students from an \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-the-femineers\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eall-female engineering afterschool club\\u003c\/a\\u003e in Southern California invented \\u003ci\\u003eBottle Cap Bonanza\\u003c\/i\\u003e\u2014a tabletop game that teaches fraction concepts through shuffleboard-style play using everyday materials like bottle caps and a poster board. Recognizing the value of this student-created innovation, the Fraction Ball team integrated it as a core component of their classroom activities, illustrating how co-design can elevate student voice and create more effective approaches to math learning.\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball empowers teachers to engage in student-centered, collaborative learning\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball creates space for interactive, collaborative problem solving where students lead with confidence. When teachers step back and allow students to own the learning on the court\u2014making decisions, collaborating with peers, and discovering mathematical connections\u2014their \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/www.k12dive.com\/news\/students-math-fractions-decimals-play-executive-function-California\/722657\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003einstructional approach\\u003c\/a\\u003e fundamentally shifts. Teachers see new levels of teamwork, sportsmanship, and joy that ripple beyond the court, nourishing academic growth and uniquely human skills. They report that this experience has changed how they think about delivering math instruction in their classroom, inspiring them to bring more student-centered, collaborative practices to other lessons and learning contexts.\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"Playful assessment captures both math and executive function skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"The \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly-video-game-demo\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eFraction Ball \\u0022Exactly\u201d video game\\u003c\/a\\u003e offers educators valuable insights into their students\u2019 learning through a \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003evalidated, playful assessment\\u003c\/a\\u003e of planning skills, assessed within the context of fractions. This stealth assessment gathers data useful to researchers and educators, while avoiding testing burden on students or invoking test anxiety.\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items\":5,\"_text_list_list_items\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items\",\"text_list\":\"\",\"_text_list\":\"field_text_list_text_list\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c4b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/video-demo {\"name\":\"acf\/video-demo\",\"data\":{\"video_demo_headline\":\"See Fraction Ball in Action\",\"_video_demo_headline\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_headline\",\"video_demo_subheading\":\"\",\"_video_demo_subheading\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_subheading\",\"video_demo_video_url\":\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=6ps6nfIA738\",\"_video_demo_video_url\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_url\",\"video_demo_video_cover\":1625,\"_video_demo_video_cover\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_cover\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"Learn More\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.gojuego.com\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button_style\",\"video_demo_buttons\":1,\"_video_demo_buttons\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons\",\"video_demo\":\"\",\"_video_demo\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c94\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/testimonials {\"name\":\"acf\/testimonials\",\"data\":{\"testimonials_headline\":\"VOICES FROM THE EF+MATH COMMUNITY\",\"_testimonials_headline\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_headline\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball creates joyful, physically active learning environments where conceptual understanding of fractions and executive function skills are developed together. Compared to other movement-based math programs, Fraction Ball distinguishes itself through its intentional integration of rigorous mathematical learning with kinesthetic engagement. It excels at fostering student collaboration, agency, and conceptual thinking.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"Rennie Center for Education Research and Policy, EF+Math Competitive Product Analysis\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"\\u0022Being able to engage in Fraction Ball as a teacher made me feel seen and I appreciated that my kids were finally getting seen. Their voices, and my voice, were being elevated in research, and I was excited to learn that the communities that I serve (primarily Black and Brown students) were going to finally make it into research, and have a space in that community of researchers.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"Lourdes Acevedo-Farag, R\\u0026D project team member\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball ran so smoothly this year, based on our suggestions from last year... We felt super valued, and we were able to execute the lessons with fidelity, based on our suggestions. My opinion and my voice mattered.\u201d \",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"Julie Laguna-Caturegli, district partner\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes\":3,\"_testimonials_quotes\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes\",\"testimonials\":\"\",\"_testimonials\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cb6\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/featured-resources {\"name\":\"acf\/featured-resources\",\"data\":{\"featured_resources_headline\":\"Research Highlights\",\"_featured_resources_headline\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_headline\",\"featured_resources_resources\":[\"910\",\"992\",\"1009\",\"1079\"],\"_featured_resources_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_resources\",\"featured_resources\":\"\",\"_featured_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cc9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/staff-teaser-grid {\"name\":\"acf\/staff-teaser-grid\",\"data\":{\"staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"Project Team\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_headline\",\"staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":[\"653\",\"654\",\"655\",\"656\",\"657\",\"659\",\"658\",\"661\",\"660\",\"662\",\"663\",\"664\",\"665\",\"666\",\"667\",\"668\",\"669\",\"670\",\"671\",\"566\",\"672\",\"673\",\"562\",\"674\",\"675\",\"676\"],\"_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01ce9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-row {\"name\":\"acf\/text-row\",\"data\":{\"text_row_headline\":\"Acknowledgments \",\"_text_row_headline\":\"field_text_row_text_row_headline\",\"text_row_subheading\":\"\",\"_text_row_subheading\":\"field_text_row_text_row_subheading\",\"text_row_content\":\"Fraction Ball thrives because of the educators, students, administrators, and community partners who bring playful math learning to life. We are especially grateful to the Santa Ana Unified School District, El Rancho Unified School District, Lynwood Unified School District, and El Sol Academy\u2014the community where Fraction Ball first took shape. Their commitment to joyful, equitable math learning continues to guide and inspire the work.\\r\\n\\r\\nWe also gratefully acknowledge the leadership of the University of California, Irvine, in partnership with Juego!.\",\"_text_row_content\":\"field_text_row_text_row_content\",\"text_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_text_row_buttons\":\"field_text_row_text_row_buttons\",\"text_row_alignment\":\"left\",\"_text_row_alignment\":\"field_text_row_text_row_alignment\",\"text_row\":\"\",\"_text_row\":\"field_text_row_text_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d09\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/full-width-cta {\"name\":\"acf\/full-width-cta\",\"data\":{\"full_width_cta_headline\":\"Explore Our R\\u0026D Projects\",\"_full_width_cta_headline\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_headline\",\"full_width_cta_subheading\":\"The EF+Math portfolio of R\\u0026D projects developed innovative math learning products and advanced research on mathematics learning, executive function skills, and equitable learning experiences using inclusive R\\u0026D methods.\",\"_full_width_cta_subheading\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_subheading\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"View All R\\u0026D Projects\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/projects\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button_style\",\"full_width_cta_buttons\":1,\"_full_width_cta_buttons\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons\",\"full_width_cta\":\"\",\"_full_width_cta\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d26\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","description":"","objectType":"Project","project-type":[{"name":"Evaluation Study","slug":"evaluation-study","term_taxonomy_id":29,"taxonomy":"project-type"},{"name":"Product","slug":"product","term_taxonomy_id":28,"taxonomy":"project-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:03:13","attachment":{"ID":812,"src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg","img":"<img width=\"1280\" height=\"1091\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg 1280w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-300x256.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1024x873.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-768x655.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-320x273.jpeg 320w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-640x546.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed.jpeg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/>"},"meta":[]}]}}},{"ID":656,"title":"Evelyn Santana","altTitle":"Evelyn Santana","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/staff\/evelyn-santana\/","slug":"evelyn-santana","content":"","description":"","objectType":"Staff","staff-type":[{"name":"R&amp;D Project Teams","slug":"rd-project-teams","term_taxonomy_id":8,"taxonomy":"staff-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:38:06","attachment":{"ID":"32","src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png","img":"<img width=\"612\" height=\"612\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png 612w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-320x320.png 320w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px\" \/>"},"meta":{"staff_metadata":{"name":"Evelyn Santana","role":"Project Coordinator","image":false,"social_links":{"linkedin":"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/evelynjs\/","facebook":"","x_twitter":"","email":""},"intro_text":"Evelyn Santana was a Project Coordinator at the University of California, Irvine.","bio":"","projects":[{"ID":519,"title":"Fraction Ball","altTitle":"Fraction Ball","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/project\/fraction-ball\/","slug":"fraction-ball","content":"<!-- wp:acf\/feature-row {\"name\":\"acf\/feature-row\",\"data\":{\"feature_row_headline\":\"Project Approach\",\"_feature_row_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_headline\",\"feature_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball\u2019s approach weaves together math, executive function skills, and equity to help students deepen their understanding of rational numbers through outdoor games and classroom activities. \",\"_feature_row_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_subheading\",\"feature_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_feature_row_buttons\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_buttons\",\"feature_row_card_type\":\"category_card\",\"_feature_row_card_type\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_card_type\",\"feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"Math.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"Mathematics\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"Playful embodied cognition approach to rational number understanding in grades 4\u20135, including fraction magnitude, equivalence, addition\/subtraction, and conversions.\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"Executive-Function.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"Executive Function Skills\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eOpportunities to adaptively monitor, plan, update, and shift thinking within reasoning about rational numbers in basketball games and strategies.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_2_icon\":\"Equity.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_2_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_2_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_2_headline\":\"Equitable Learning Experiences\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eImproving math-related emotions and teamwork through collaborative learning. Team roles provide opportunities to participate in a variety of ways, ensuring that all students, including multilingual learners, can be involved.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards\":3,\"_feature_row_cards\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards\",\"feature_row_padding\":\"both\",\"_feature_row_padding\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_padding\",\"feature_row\":\"\",\"_feature_row\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb0188b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/stat-row {\"name\":\"acf\/stat-row\",\"data\":{\"stat_row_headline\":\"Project Impact \",\"_stat_row_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_headline\",\"stat_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball has produced measurable impact in classrooms, reaching thousands of students and educators, while contributing research findings to advance math education.\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"4,400\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"students reached through Fraction Ball\u2019s work with the EF+Math program\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"23\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"school partners involved in research, development, co-design, and evaluation \\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"45+\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"publications and resources disseminated with Fraction Ball\u2019s learnings\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container\":3,\"_stat_row_stat_container\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container\",\"stat_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_stat_row_buttons\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_buttons\",\"stat_row_background_image\":1414,\"_stat_row_background_image\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_background_image\",\"stat_row\":\"\",\"_stat_row\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb018de\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-list {\"name\":\"acf\/text-list\",\"data\":{\"text_list_headline\":\"Key Insights and Innovations \",\"_text_list_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"Physical movement makes learning fractions collaborative and joyful\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/brilliantfuture.uci.edu\/fraction-ball-math-game-spreads-with-help-of-philanthropy\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003ereimagines the schoolyard\\u003c\/a\\u003e as a place for learning by overlaying fraction and decimal markings onto an existing basketball court that becomes the basis for Fraction Ball\u2019s court-based games. The traditional 3-point arc becomes 1 point, while smaller arcs represent fractional points. A number line tracks the score, allowing students to visualize magnitude and practice converting between fractions and decimals as they play. This embodied learning approach\u2014where physical movement connects directly to mathematical concepts\u2014decreases math anxiety while building rational number understanding, creating an environment for students where math can be collaborative and joyful.\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball leads to positive impacts on  fraction learning and contextualized EF skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"Findings from across two independent evaluation studies were consistent in showing that Fraction Ball had statistically significant, positive impacts on measures of fraction learning and contextualized EF skills. Notably, \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/osf.io\/najd6\/files\/mf7n9\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eevaluation study findings from 2024-25\\u003c\/a\\u003e showed that students who used Fraction Ball performed significantly better on an overall assessment of fraction learning and improved by more than 12-percentile-points on fractions-to-decimals conversion items, when compared to students who did not use Fraction Ball. Across both studies, students who used Fraction Ball also demonstrated stronger planning skills on a measure of EF skills in a math-based context.\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"Bottle Cap Bonanza: Student-designed game connects the court to the classroom\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"Students from an \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-the-femineers\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eall-female engineering afterschool club\\u003c\/a\\u003e in Southern California invented \\u003ci\\u003eBottle Cap Bonanza\\u003c\/i\\u003e\u2014a tabletop game that teaches fraction concepts through shuffleboard-style play using everyday materials like bottle caps and a poster board. Recognizing the value of this student-created innovation, the Fraction Ball team integrated it as a core component of their classroom activities, illustrating how co-design can elevate student voice and create more effective approaches to math learning.\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball empowers teachers to engage in student-centered, collaborative learning\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball creates space for interactive, collaborative problem solving where students lead with confidence. When teachers step back and allow students to own the learning on the court\u2014making decisions, collaborating with peers, and discovering mathematical connections\u2014their \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/www.k12dive.com\/news\/students-math-fractions-decimals-play-executive-function-California\/722657\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003einstructional approach\\u003c\/a\\u003e fundamentally shifts. Teachers see new levels of teamwork, sportsmanship, and joy that ripple beyond the court, nourishing academic growth and uniquely human skills. They report that this experience has changed how they think about delivering math instruction in their classroom, inspiring them to bring more student-centered, collaborative practices to other lessons and learning contexts.\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"Playful assessment captures both math and executive function skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"The \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly-video-game-demo\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eFraction Ball \\u0022Exactly\u201d video game\\u003c\/a\\u003e offers educators valuable insights into their students\u2019 learning through a \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003evalidated, playful assessment\\u003c\/a\\u003e of planning skills, assessed within the context of fractions. This stealth assessment gathers data useful to researchers and educators, while avoiding testing burden on students or invoking test anxiety.\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items\":5,\"_text_list_list_items\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items\",\"text_list\":\"\",\"_text_list\":\"field_text_list_text_list\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c4b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/video-demo {\"name\":\"acf\/video-demo\",\"data\":{\"video_demo_headline\":\"See Fraction Ball in Action\",\"_video_demo_headline\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_headline\",\"video_demo_subheading\":\"\",\"_video_demo_subheading\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_subheading\",\"video_demo_video_url\":\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=6ps6nfIA738\",\"_video_demo_video_url\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_url\",\"video_demo_video_cover\":1625,\"_video_demo_video_cover\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_cover\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"Learn More\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.gojuego.com\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button_style\",\"video_demo_buttons\":1,\"_video_demo_buttons\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons\",\"video_demo\":\"\",\"_video_demo\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c94\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/testimonials {\"name\":\"acf\/testimonials\",\"data\":{\"testimonials_headline\":\"VOICES FROM THE EF+MATH COMMUNITY\",\"_testimonials_headline\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_headline\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball creates joyful, physically active learning environments where conceptual understanding of fractions and executive function skills are developed together. Compared to other movement-based math programs, Fraction Ball distinguishes itself through its intentional integration of rigorous mathematical learning with kinesthetic engagement. It excels at fostering student collaboration, agency, and conceptual thinking.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"Rennie Center for Education Research and Policy, EF+Math Competitive Product Analysis\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"\\u0022Being able to engage in Fraction Ball as a teacher made me feel seen and I appreciated that my kids were finally getting seen. Their voices, and my voice, were being elevated in research, and I was excited to learn that the communities that I serve (primarily Black and Brown students) were going to finally make it into research, and have a space in that community of researchers.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"Lourdes Acevedo-Farag, R\\u0026D project team member\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball ran so smoothly this year, based on our suggestions from last year... We felt super valued, and we were able to execute the lessons with fidelity, based on our suggestions. My opinion and my voice mattered.\u201d \",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"Julie Laguna-Caturegli, district partner\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes\":3,\"_testimonials_quotes\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes\",\"testimonials\":\"\",\"_testimonials\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cb6\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/featured-resources {\"name\":\"acf\/featured-resources\",\"data\":{\"featured_resources_headline\":\"Research Highlights\",\"_featured_resources_headline\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_headline\",\"featured_resources_resources\":[\"910\",\"992\",\"1009\",\"1079\"],\"_featured_resources_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_resources\",\"featured_resources\":\"\",\"_featured_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cc9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/staff-teaser-grid {\"name\":\"acf\/staff-teaser-grid\",\"data\":{\"staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"Project Team\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_headline\",\"staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":[\"653\",\"654\",\"655\",\"656\",\"657\",\"659\",\"658\",\"661\",\"660\",\"662\",\"663\",\"664\",\"665\",\"666\",\"667\",\"668\",\"669\",\"670\",\"671\",\"566\",\"672\",\"673\",\"562\",\"674\",\"675\",\"676\"],\"_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01ce9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-row {\"name\":\"acf\/text-row\",\"data\":{\"text_row_headline\":\"Acknowledgments \",\"_text_row_headline\":\"field_text_row_text_row_headline\",\"text_row_subheading\":\"\",\"_text_row_subheading\":\"field_text_row_text_row_subheading\",\"text_row_content\":\"Fraction Ball thrives because of the educators, students, administrators, and community partners who bring playful math learning to life. We are especially grateful to the Santa Ana Unified School District, El Rancho Unified School District, Lynwood Unified School District, and El Sol Academy\u2014the community where Fraction Ball first took shape. Their commitment to joyful, equitable math learning continues to guide and inspire the work.\\r\\n\\r\\nWe also gratefully acknowledge the leadership of the University of California, Irvine, in partnership with Juego!.\",\"_text_row_content\":\"field_text_row_text_row_content\",\"text_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_text_row_buttons\":\"field_text_row_text_row_buttons\",\"text_row_alignment\":\"left\",\"_text_row_alignment\":\"field_text_row_text_row_alignment\",\"text_row\":\"\",\"_text_row\":\"field_text_row_text_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d09\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/full-width-cta {\"name\":\"acf\/full-width-cta\",\"data\":{\"full_width_cta_headline\":\"Explore Our R\\u0026D Projects\",\"_full_width_cta_headline\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_headline\",\"full_width_cta_subheading\":\"The EF+Math portfolio of R\\u0026D projects developed innovative math learning products and advanced research on mathematics learning, executive function skills, and equitable learning experiences using inclusive R\\u0026D methods.\",\"_full_width_cta_subheading\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_subheading\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"View All R\\u0026D Projects\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/projects\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button_style\",\"full_width_cta_buttons\":1,\"_full_width_cta_buttons\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons\",\"full_width_cta\":\"\",\"_full_width_cta\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d26\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","description":"","objectType":"Project","project-type":[{"name":"Evaluation Study","slug":"evaluation-study","term_taxonomy_id":29,"taxonomy":"project-type"},{"name":"Product","slug":"product","term_taxonomy_id":28,"taxonomy":"project-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:03:13","attachment":{"ID":812,"src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg","img":"<img width=\"1280\" height=\"1091\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg 1280w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-300x256.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1024x873.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-768x655.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-320x273.jpeg 320w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-640x546.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed.jpeg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/>"},"meta":[]}]}}},{"ID":657,"title":"Jesse Giovanni S\u00e1nchez","altTitle":"Jesse Giovanni S\u00e1nchez","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/staff\/giovanni-sanchez\/","slug":"giovanni-sanchez","content":"","description":"","objectType":"Staff","staff-type":[{"name":"R&amp;D Project Teams","slug":"rd-project-teams","term_taxonomy_id":8,"taxonomy":"staff-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:38:06","attachment":{"ID":"32","src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png","img":"<img width=\"612\" height=\"612\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png 612w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-320x320.png 320w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px\" \/>"},"meta":{"staff_metadata":{"name":"Jesse Giovanni S\u00e1nchez ","role":"Project Coordinator","image":false,"social_links":{"linkedin":"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/jessegiovanni\/","facebook":"","x_twitter":"","email":"jessegs@uci.edu"},"intro_text":"Jesse Giovanni S\u00e1nchez was a Project Coordinator at the University of California, Irvine.<br \/>\r\n<br \/>\r\n","bio":"","projects":[{"ID":519,"title":"Fraction Ball","altTitle":"Fraction Ball","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/project\/fraction-ball\/","slug":"fraction-ball","content":"<!-- wp:acf\/feature-row {\"name\":\"acf\/feature-row\",\"data\":{\"feature_row_headline\":\"Project Approach\",\"_feature_row_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_headline\",\"feature_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball\u2019s approach weaves together math, executive function skills, and equity to help students deepen their understanding of rational numbers through outdoor games and classroom activities. \",\"_feature_row_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_subheading\",\"feature_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_feature_row_buttons\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_buttons\",\"feature_row_card_type\":\"category_card\",\"_feature_row_card_type\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_card_type\",\"feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"Math.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"Mathematics\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"Playful embodied cognition approach to rational number understanding in grades 4\u20135, including fraction magnitude, equivalence, addition\/subtraction, and conversions.\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"Executive-Function.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"Executive Function Skills\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eOpportunities to adaptively monitor, plan, update, and shift thinking within reasoning about rational numbers in basketball games and strategies.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_2_icon\":\"Equity.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_2_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_2_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_2_headline\":\"Equitable Learning Experiences\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eImproving math-related emotions and teamwork through collaborative learning. Team roles provide opportunities to participate in a variety of ways, ensuring that all students, including multilingual learners, can be involved.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards\":3,\"_feature_row_cards\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards\",\"feature_row_padding\":\"both\",\"_feature_row_padding\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_padding\",\"feature_row\":\"\",\"_feature_row\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb0188b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/stat-row {\"name\":\"acf\/stat-row\",\"data\":{\"stat_row_headline\":\"Project Impact \",\"_stat_row_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_headline\",\"stat_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball has produced measurable impact in classrooms, reaching thousands of students and educators, while contributing research findings to advance math education.\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"4,400\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"students reached through Fraction Ball\u2019s work with the EF+Math program\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"23\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"school partners involved in research, development, co-design, and evaluation \\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"45+\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"publications and resources disseminated with Fraction Ball\u2019s learnings\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container\":3,\"_stat_row_stat_container\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container\",\"stat_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_stat_row_buttons\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_buttons\",\"stat_row_background_image\":1414,\"_stat_row_background_image\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_background_image\",\"stat_row\":\"\",\"_stat_row\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb018de\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-list {\"name\":\"acf\/text-list\",\"data\":{\"text_list_headline\":\"Key Insights and Innovations \",\"_text_list_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"Physical movement makes learning fractions collaborative and joyful\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/brilliantfuture.uci.edu\/fraction-ball-math-game-spreads-with-help-of-philanthropy\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003ereimagines the schoolyard\\u003c\/a\\u003e as a place for learning by overlaying fraction and decimal markings onto an existing basketball court that becomes the basis for Fraction Ball\u2019s court-based games. The traditional 3-point arc becomes 1 point, while smaller arcs represent fractional points. A number line tracks the score, allowing students to visualize magnitude and practice converting between fractions and decimals as they play. This embodied learning approach\u2014where physical movement connects directly to mathematical concepts\u2014decreases math anxiety while building rational number understanding, creating an environment for students where math can be collaborative and joyful.\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball leads to positive impacts on  fraction learning and contextualized EF skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"Findings from across two independent evaluation studies were consistent in showing that Fraction Ball had statistically significant, positive impacts on measures of fraction learning and contextualized EF skills. Notably, \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/osf.io\/najd6\/files\/mf7n9\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eevaluation study findings from 2024-25\\u003c\/a\\u003e showed that students who used Fraction Ball performed significantly better on an overall assessment of fraction learning and improved by more than 12-percentile-points on fractions-to-decimals conversion items, when compared to students who did not use Fraction Ball. Across both studies, students who used Fraction Ball also demonstrated stronger planning skills on a measure of EF skills in a math-based context.\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"Bottle Cap Bonanza: Student-designed game connects the court to the classroom\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"Students from an \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-the-femineers\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eall-female engineering afterschool club\\u003c\/a\\u003e in Southern California invented \\u003ci\\u003eBottle Cap Bonanza\\u003c\/i\\u003e\u2014a tabletop game that teaches fraction concepts through shuffleboard-style play using everyday materials like bottle caps and a poster board. Recognizing the value of this student-created innovation, the Fraction Ball team integrated it as a core component of their classroom activities, illustrating how co-design can elevate student voice and create more effective approaches to math learning.\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball empowers teachers to engage in student-centered, collaborative learning\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball creates space for interactive, collaborative problem solving where students lead with confidence. When teachers step back and allow students to own the learning on the court\u2014making decisions, collaborating with peers, and discovering mathematical connections\u2014their \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/www.k12dive.com\/news\/students-math-fractions-decimals-play-executive-function-California\/722657\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003einstructional approach\\u003c\/a\\u003e fundamentally shifts. Teachers see new levels of teamwork, sportsmanship, and joy that ripple beyond the court, nourishing academic growth and uniquely human skills. They report that this experience has changed how they think about delivering math instruction in their classroom, inspiring them to bring more student-centered, collaborative practices to other lessons and learning contexts.\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"Playful assessment captures both math and executive function skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"The \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly-video-game-demo\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eFraction Ball \\u0022Exactly\u201d video game\\u003c\/a\\u003e offers educators valuable insights into their students\u2019 learning through a \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003evalidated, playful assessment\\u003c\/a\\u003e of planning skills, assessed within the context of fractions. This stealth assessment gathers data useful to researchers and educators, while avoiding testing burden on students or invoking test anxiety.\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items\":5,\"_text_list_list_items\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items\",\"text_list\":\"\",\"_text_list\":\"field_text_list_text_list\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c4b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/video-demo {\"name\":\"acf\/video-demo\",\"data\":{\"video_demo_headline\":\"See Fraction Ball in Action\",\"_video_demo_headline\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_headline\",\"video_demo_subheading\":\"\",\"_video_demo_subheading\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_subheading\",\"video_demo_video_url\":\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=6ps6nfIA738\",\"_video_demo_video_url\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_url\",\"video_demo_video_cover\":1625,\"_video_demo_video_cover\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_cover\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"Learn More\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.gojuego.com\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button_style\",\"video_demo_buttons\":1,\"_video_demo_buttons\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons\",\"video_demo\":\"\",\"_video_demo\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c94\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/testimonials {\"name\":\"acf\/testimonials\",\"data\":{\"testimonials_headline\":\"VOICES FROM THE EF+MATH COMMUNITY\",\"_testimonials_headline\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_headline\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball creates joyful, physically active learning environments where conceptual understanding of fractions and executive function skills are developed together. Compared to other movement-based math programs, Fraction Ball distinguishes itself through its intentional integration of rigorous mathematical learning with kinesthetic engagement. It excels at fostering student collaboration, agency, and conceptual thinking.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"Rennie Center for Education Research and Policy, EF+Math Competitive Product Analysis\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"\\u0022Being able to engage in Fraction Ball as a teacher made me feel seen and I appreciated that my kids were finally getting seen. Their voices, and my voice, were being elevated in research, and I was excited to learn that the communities that I serve (primarily Black and Brown students) were going to finally make it into research, and have a space in that community of researchers.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"Lourdes Acevedo-Farag, R\\u0026D project team member\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball ran so smoothly this year, based on our suggestions from last year... We felt super valued, and we were able to execute the lessons with fidelity, based on our suggestions. My opinion and my voice mattered.\u201d \",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"Julie Laguna-Caturegli, district partner\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes\":3,\"_testimonials_quotes\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes\",\"testimonials\":\"\",\"_testimonials\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cb6\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/featured-resources {\"name\":\"acf\/featured-resources\",\"data\":{\"featured_resources_headline\":\"Research Highlights\",\"_featured_resources_headline\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_headline\",\"featured_resources_resources\":[\"910\",\"992\",\"1009\",\"1079\"],\"_featured_resources_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_resources\",\"featured_resources\":\"\",\"_featured_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cc9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/staff-teaser-grid {\"name\":\"acf\/staff-teaser-grid\",\"data\":{\"staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"Project Team\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_headline\",\"staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":[\"653\",\"654\",\"655\",\"656\",\"657\",\"659\",\"658\",\"661\",\"660\",\"662\",\"663\",\"664\",\"665\",\"666\",\"667\",\"668\",\"669\",\"670\",\"671\",\"566\",\"672\",\"673\",\"562\",\"674\",\"675\",\"676\"],\"_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01ce9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-row {\"name\":\"acf\/text-row\",\"data\":{\"text_row_headline\":\"Acknowledgments \",\"_text_row_headline\":\"field_text_row_text_row_headline\",\"text_row_subheading\":\"\",\"_text_row_subheading\":\"field_text_row_text_row_subheading\",\"text_row_content\":\"Fraction Ball thrives because of the educators, students, administrators, and community partners who bring playful math learning to life. We are especially grateful to the Santa Ana Unified School District, El Rancho Unified School District, Lynwood Unified School District, and El Sol Academy\u2014the community where Fraction Ball first took shape. Their commitment to joyful, equitable math learning continues to guide and inspire the work.\\r\\n\\r\\nWe also gratefully acknowledge the leadership of the University of California, Irvine, in partnership with Juego!.\",\"_text_row_content\":\"field_text_row_text_row_content\",\"text_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_text_row_buttons\":\"field_text_row_text_row_buttons\",\"text_row_alignment\":\"left\",\"_text_row_alignment\":\"field_text_row_text_row_alignment\",\"text_row\":\"\",\"_text_row\":\"field_text_row_text_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d09\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/full-width-cta {\"name\":\"acf\/full-width-cta\",\"data\":{\"full_width_cta_headline\":\"Explore Our R\\u0026D Projects\",\"_full_width_cta_headline\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_headline\",\"full_width_cta_subheading\":\"The EF+Math portfolio of R\\u0026D projects developed innovative math learning products and advanced research on mathematics learning, executive function skills, and equitable learning experiences using inclusive R\\u0026D methods.\",\"_full_width_cta_subheading\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_subheading\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"View All R\\u0026D Projects\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/projects\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button_style\",\"full_width_cta_buttons\":1,\"_full_width_cta_buttons\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons\",\"full_width_cta\":\"\",\"_full_width_cta\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d26\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","description":"","objectType":"Project","project-type":[{"name":"Evaluation Study","slug":"evaluation-study","term_taxonomy_id":29,"taxonomy":"project-type"},{"name":"Product","slug":"product","term_taxonomy_id":28,"taxonomy":"project-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:03:13","attachment":{"ID":812,"src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg","img":"<img width=\"1280\" height=\"1091\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg 1280w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-300x256.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1024x873.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-768x655.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-320x273.jpeg 320w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-640x546.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed.jpeg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/>"},"meta":[]}]}}},{"ID":659,"title":"John Louis-Strakes Lopez","altTitle":"John Louis-Strakes Lopez","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/staff\/john-lopez\/","slug":"john-lopez","content":"","description":"","objectType":"Staff","staff-type":[{"name":"R&amp;D Project Teams","slug":"rd-project-teams","term_taxonomy_id":8,"taxonomy":"staff-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:38:06","attachment":{"ID":"32","src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png","img":"<img width=\"612\" height=\"612\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png 612w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-320x320.png 320w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px\" \/>"},"meta":{"staff_metadata":{"name":"John Louis-Strakes Lopez","role":"Graduate Student Researcher","image":false,"social_links":{"linkedin":"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/jlopez616\/","facebook":"","x_twitter":"","email":"johnll2@berkeley.edu"},"intro_text":"John Louis-Strakes Lopez was a Graduate Student Researcher at the University of California, Irvine.","bio":"","projects":[{"ID":519,"title":"Fraction Ball","altTitle":"Fraction Ball","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/project\/fraction-ball\/","slug":"fraction-ball","content":"<!-- wp:acf\/feature-row {\"name\":\"acf\/feature-row\",\"data\":{\"feature_row_headline\":\"Project Approach\",\"_feature_row_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_headline\",\"feature_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball\u2019s approach weaves together math, executive function skills, and equity to help students deepen their understanding of rational numbers through outdoor games and classroom activities. \",\"_feature_row_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_subheading\",\"feature_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_feature_row_buttons\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_buttons\",\"feature_row_card_type\":\"category_card\",\"_feature_row_card_type\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_card_type\",\"feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"Math.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"Mathematics\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"Playful embodied cognition approach to rational number understanding in grades 4\u20135, including fraction magnitude, equivalence, addition\/subtraction, and conversions.\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"Executive-Function.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"Executive Function Skills\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eOpportunities to adaptively monitor, plan, update, and shift thinking within reasoning about rational numbers in basketball games and 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Team roles provide opportunities to participate in a variety of ways, ensuring that all students, including multilingual learners, can be involved.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards\":3,\"_feature_row_cards\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards\",\"feature_row_padding\":\"both\",\"_feature_row_padding\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_padding\",\"feature_row\":\"\",\"_feature_row\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb0188b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/stat-row {\"name\":\"acf\/stat-row\",\"data\":{\"stat_row_headline\":\"Project Impact \",\"_stat_row_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_headline\",\"stat_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball has produced measurable impact in classrooms, reaching thousands of students and educators, while contributing research findings to advance math education.\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"4,400\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"students reached through Fraction Ball\u2019s work with the EF+Math program\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"23\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"school partners involved in research, development, co-design, and evaluation \\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"45+\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"publications and resources disseminated with Fraction Ball\u2019s learnings\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container\":3,\"_stat_row_stat_container\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container\",\"stat_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_stat_row_buttons\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_buttons\",\"stat_row_background_image\":1414,\"_stat_row_background_image\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_background_image\",\"stat_row\":\"\",\"_stat_row\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb018de\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-list {\"name\":\"acf\/text-list\",\"data\":{\"text_list_headline\":\"Key Insights and Innovations \",\"_text_list_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"Physical movement makes learning fractions collaborative and joyful\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/brilliantfuture.uci.edu\/fraction-ball-math-game-spreads-with-help-of-philanthropy\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003ereimagines the schoolyard\\u003c\/a\\u003e as a place for learning by overlaying fraction and decimal markings onto an existing basketball court that becomes the basis for Fraction Ball\u2019s court-based games. The traditional 3-point arc becomes 1 point, while smaller arcs represent fractional points. A number line tracks the score, allowing students to visualize magnitude and practice converting between fractions and decimals as they play. This embodied learning approach\u2014where physical movement connects directly to mathematical concepts\u2014decreases math anxiety while building rational number understanding, creating an environment for students where math can be collaborative and joyful.\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball leads to positive impacts on  fraction learning and contextualized EF skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"Findings from across two independent evaluation studies were consistent in showing that Fraction Ball had statistically significant, positive impacts on measures of fraction learning and contextualized EF skills. Notably, \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/osf.io\/najd6\/files\/mf7n9\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eevaluation study findings from 2024-25\\u003c\/a\\u003e showed that students who used Fraction Ball performed significantly better on an overall assessment of fraction learning and improved by more than 12-percentile-points on fractions-to-decimals conversion items, when compared to students who did not use Fraction Ball. Across both studies, students who used Fraction Ball also demonstrated stronger planning skills on a measure of EF skills in a math-based context.\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"Bottle Cap Bonanza: Student-designed game connects the court to the classroom\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"Students from an \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-the-femineers\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eall-female engineering afterschool club\\u003c\/a\\u003e in Southern California invented \\u003ci\\u003eBottle Cap Bonanza\\u003c\/i\\u003e\u2014a tabletop game that teaches fraction concepts through shuffleboard-style play using everyday materials like bottle caps and a poster board. Recognizing the value of this student-created innovation, the Fraction Ball team integrated it as a core component of their classroom activities, illustrating how co-design can elevate student voice and create more effective approaches to math learning.\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball empowers teachers to engage in student-centered, collaborative learning\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball creates space for interactive, collaborative problem solving where students lead with confidence. When teachers step back and allow students to own the learning on the court\u2014making decisions, collaborating with peers, and discovering mathematical connections\u2014their \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/www.k12dive.com\/news\/students-math-fractions-decimals-play-executive-function-California\/722657\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003einstructional approach\\u003c\/a\\u003e fundamentally shifts. Teachers see new levels of teamwork, sportsmanship, and joy that ripple beyond the court, nourishing academic growth and uniquely human skills. They report that this experience has changed how they think about delivering math instruction in their classroom, inspiring them to bring more student-centered, collaborative practices to other lessons and learning contexts.\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"Playful assessment captures both math and executive function skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"The \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly-video-game-demo\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eFraction Ball \\u0022Exactly\u201d video game\\u003c\/a\\u003e offers educators valuable insights into their students\u2019 learning through a \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003evalidated, playful assessment\\u003c\/a\\u003e of planning skills, assessed within the context of fractions. This stealth assessment gathers data useful to researchers and educators, while avoiding testing burden on students or invoking test anxiety.\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items\":5,\"_text_list_list_items\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items\",\"text_list\":\"\",\"_text_list\":\"field_text_list_text_list\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c4b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/video-demo {\"name\":\"acf\/video-demo\",\"data\":{\"video_demo_headline\":\"See Fraction Ball in Action\",\"_video_demo_headline\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_headline\",\"video_demo_subheading\":\"\",\"_video_demo_subheading\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_subheading\",\"video_demo_video_url\":\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=6ps6nfIA738\",\"_video_demo_video_url\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_url\",\"video_demo_video_cover\":1625,\"_video_demo_video_cover\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_cover\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"Learn More\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.gojuego.com\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button_style\",\"video_demo_buttons\":1,\"_video_demo_buttons\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons\",\"video_demo\":\"\",\"_video_demo\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c94\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/testimonials {\"name\":\"acf\/testimonials\",\"data\":{\"testimonials_headline\":\"VOICES FROM THE EF+MATH COMMUNITY\",\"_testimonials_headline\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_headline\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball creates joyful, physically active learning environments where conceptual understanding of fractions and executive function skills are developed together. Compared to other movement-based math programs, Fraction Ball distinguishes itself through its intentional integration of rigorous mathematical learning with kinesthetic engagement. It excels at fostering student collaboration, agency, and conceptual thinking.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"Rennie Center for Education Research and Policy, EF+Math Competitive Product Analysis\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"\\u0022Being able to engage in Fraction Ball as a teacher made me feel seen and I appreciated that my kids were finally getting seen. Their voices, and my voice, were being elevated in research, and I was excited to learn that the communities that I serve (primarily Black and Brown students) were going to finally make it into research, and have a space in that community of researchers.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"Lourdes Acevedo-Farag, R\\u0026D project team member\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball ran so smoothly this year, based on our suggestions from last year... We felt super valued, and we were able to execute the lessons with fidelity, based on our suggestions. My opinion and my voice mattered.\u201d \",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"Julie Laguna-Caturegli, district partner\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes\":3,\"_testimonials_quotes\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes\",\"testimonials\":\"\",\"_testimonials\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cb6\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/featured-resources {\"name\":\"acf\/featured-resources\",\"data\":{\"featured_resources_headline\":\"Research Highlights\",\"_featured_resources_headline\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_headline\",\"featured_resources_resources\":[\"910\",\"992\",\"1009\",\"1079\"],\"_featured_resources_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_resources\",\"featured_resources\":\"\",\"_featured_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cc9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/staff-teaser-grid {\"name\":\"acf\/staff-teaser-grid\",\"data\":{\"staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"Project Team\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_headline\",\"staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":[\"653\",\"654\",\"655\",\"656\",\"657\",\"659\",\"658\",\"661\",\"660\",\"662\",\"663\",\"664\",\"665\",\"666\",\"667\",\"668\",\"669\",\"670\",\"671\",\"566\",\"672\",\"673\",\"562\",\"674\",\"675\",\"676\"],\"_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01ce9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-row {\"name\":\"acf\/text-row\",\"data\":{\"text_row_headline\":\"Acknowledgments \",\"_text_row_headline\":\"field_text_row_text_row_headline\",\"text_row_subheading\":\"\",\"_text_row_subheading\":\"field_text_row_text_row_subheading\",\"text_row_content\":\"Fraction Ball thrives because of the educators, students, administrators, and community partners who bring playful math learning to life. We are especially grateful to the Santa Ana Unified School District, El Rancho Unified School District, Lynwood Unified School District, and El Sol Academy\u2014the community where Fraction Ball first took shape. Their commitment to joyful, equitable math learning continues to guide and inspire the work.\\r\\n\\r\\nWe also gratefully acknowledge the leadership of the University of California, Irvine, in partnership with Juego!.\",\"_text_row_content\":\"field_text_row_text_row_content\",\"text_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_text_row_buttons\":\"field_text_row_text_row_buttons\",\"text_row_alignment\":\"left\",\"_text_row_alignment\":\"field_text_row_text_row_alignment\",\"text_row\":\"\",\"_text_row\":\"field_text_row_text_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d09\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/full-width-cta {\"name\":\"acf\/full-width-cta\",\"data\":{\"full_width_cta_headline\":\"Explore Our R\\u0026D Projects\",\"_full_width_cta_headline\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_headline\",\"full_width_cta_subheading\":\"The EF+Math portfolio of R\\u0026D projects developed innovative math learning products and advanced research on mathematics learning, executive function skills, and equitable learning experiences using inclusive R\\u0026D methods.\",\"_full_width_cta_subheading\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_subheading\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"View All R\\u0026D Projects\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/projects\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button_style\",\"full_width_cta_buttons\":1,\"_full_width_cta_buttons\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons\",\"full_width_cta\":\"\",\"_full_width_cta\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d26\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","description":"","objectType":"Project","project-type":[{"name":"Evaluation Study","slug":"evaluation-study","term_taxonomy_id":29,"taxonomy":"project-type"},{"name":"Product","slug":"product","term_taxonomy_id":28,"taxonomy":"project-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:03:13","attachment":{"ID":812,"src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg","img":"<img width=\"1280\" height=\"1091\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg 1280w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-300x256.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1024x873.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-768x655.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-320x273.jpeg 320w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-640x546.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed.jpeg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/>"},"meta":[]}]}}},{"ID":658,"title":"John Szura","altTitle":"John Szura","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/staff\/john-szura\/","slug":"john-szura","content":"","description":"","objectType":"Staff","staff-type":[{"name":"R&amp;D Project Teams","slug":"rd-project-teams","term_taxonomy_id":8,"taxonomy":"staff-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:38:06","attachment":{"ID":"32","src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png","img":"<img width=\"612\" height=\"612\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png 612w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-320x320.png 320w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px\" \/>"},"meta":{"staff_metadata":{"name":"John Szura","role":"Graduate Student Researcher","image":false,"social_links":{"linkedin":"","facebook":"","x_twitter":"","email":""},"intro_text":"John Szura was a Graduate Student Researcher at the University of California, Irvine.","bio":"","projects":[{"ID":519,"title":"Fraction Ball","altTitle":"Fraction Ball","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/project\/fraction-ball\/","slug":"fraction-ball","content":"<!-- wp:acf\/feature-row {\"name\":\"acf\/feature-row\",\"data\":{\"feature_row_headline\":\"Project Approach\",\"_feature_row_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_headline\",\"feature_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball\u2019s approach weaves together math, executive function skills, and equity to help students deepen their understanding of rational numbers through outdoor games and classroom activities. \",\"_feature_row_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_subheading\",\"feature_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_feature_row_buttons\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_buttons\",\"feature_row_card_type\":\"category_card\",\"_feature_row_card_type\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_card_type\",\"feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"Math.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"Mathematics\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"Playful embodied cognition approach to rational number understanding in grades 4\u20135, including fraction magnitude, equivalence, addition\/subtraction, and conversions.\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"Executive-Function.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"Executive Function Skills\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eOpportunities to adaptively monitor, plan, update, and shift thinking within reasoning about rational numbers in basketball games and 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Team roles provide opportunities to participate in a variety of ways, ensuring that all students, including multilingual learners, can be involved.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards\":3,\"_feature_row_cards\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards\",\"feature_row_padding\":\"both\",\"_feature_row_padding\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_padding\",\"feature_row\":\"\",\"_feature_row\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb0188b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/stat-row {\"name\":\"acf\/stat-row\",\"data\":{\"stat_row_headline\":\"Project Impact \",\"_stat_row_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_headline\",\"stat_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball has produced measurable impact in classrooms, reaching thousands of students and educators, while contributing research findings to advance math education.\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"4,400\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"students reached through Fraction Ball\u2019s work with the EF+Math program\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"23\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"school partners involved in research, development, co-design, and evaluation \\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"45+\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"publications and resources disseminated with Fraction Ball\u2019s learnings\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container\":3,\"_stat_row_stat_container\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container\",\"stat_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_stat_row_buttons\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_buttons\",\"stat_row_background_image\":1414,\"_stat_row_background_image\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_background_image\",\"stat_row\":\"\",\"_stat_row\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb018de\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-list {\"name\":\"acf\/text-list\",\"data\":{\"text_list_headline\":\"Key Insights and Innovations \",\"_text_list_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"Physical movement makes learning fractions collaborative and joyful\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/brilliantfuture.uci.edu\/fraction-ball-math-game-spreads-with-help-of-philanthropy\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003ereimagines the schoolyard\\u003c\/a\\u003e as a place for learning by overlaying fraction and decimal markings onto an existing basketball court that becomes the basis for Fraction Ball\u2019s court-based games. The traditional 3-point arc becomes 1 point, while smaller arcs represent fractional points. A number line tracks the score, allowing students to visualize magnitude and practice converting between fractions and decimals as they play. This embodied learning approach\u2014where physical movement connects directly to mathematical concepts\u2014decreases math anxiety while building rational number understanding, creating an environment for students where math can be collaborative and joyful.\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball leads to positive impacts on  fraction learning and contextualized EF skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"Findings from across two independent evaluation studies were consistent in showing that Fraction Ball had statistically significant, positive impacts on measures of fraction learning and contextualized EF skills. Notably, \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/osf.io\/najd6\/files\/mf7n9\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eevaluation study findings from 2024-25\\u003c\/a\\u003e showed that students who used Fraction Ball performed significantly better on an overall assessment of fraction learning and improved by more than 12-percentile-points on fractions-to-decimals conversion items, when compared to students who did not use Fraction Ball. Across both studies, students who used Fraction Ball also demonstrated stronger planning skills on a measure of EF skills in a math-based context.\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"Bottle Cap Bonanza: Student-designed game connects the court to the classroom\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"Students from an \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-the-femineers\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eall-female engineering afterschool club\\u003c\/a\\u003e in Southern California invented \\u003ci\\u003eBottle Cap Bonanza\\u003c\/i\\u003e\u2014a tabletop game that teaches fraction concepts through shuffleboard-style play using everyday materials like bottle caps and a poster board. Recognizing the value of this student-created innovation, the Fraction Ball team integrated it as a core component of their classroom activities, illustrating how co-design can elevate student voice and create more effective approaches to math learning.\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball empowers teachers to engage in student-centered, collaborative learning\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball creates space for interactive, collaborative problem solving where students lead with confidence. When teachers step back and allow students to own the learning on the court\u2014making decisions, collaborating with peers, and discovering mathematical connections\u2014their \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/www.k12dive.com\/news\/students-math-fractions-decimals-play-executive-function-California\/722657\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003einstructional approach\\u003c\/a\\u003e fundamentally shifts. Teachers see new levels of teamwork, sportsmanship, and joy that ripple beyond the court, nourishing academic growth and uniquely human skills. They report that this experience has changed how they think about delivering math instruction in their classroom, inspiring them to bring more student-centered, collaborative practices to other lessons and learning contexts.\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"Playful assessment captures both math and executive function skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"The \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly-video-game-demo\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eFraction Ball \\u0022Exactly\u201d video game\\u003c\/a\\u003e offers educators valuable insights into their students\u2019 learning through a \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003evalidated, playful assessment\\u003c\/a\\u003e of planning skills, assessed within the context of fractions. This stealth assessment gathers data useful to researchers and educators, while avoiding testing burden on students or invoking test anxiety.\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items\":5,\"_text_list_list_items\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items\",\"text_list\":\"\",\"_text_list\":\"field_text_list_text_list\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c4b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/video-demo {\"name\":\"acf\/video-demo\",\"data\":{\"video_demo_headline\":\"See Fraction Ball in Action\",\"_video_demo_headline\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_headline\",\"video_demo_subheading\":\"\",\"_video_demo_subheading\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_subheading\",\"video_demo_video_url\":\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=6ps6nfIA738\",\"_video_demo_video_url\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_url\",\"video_demo_video_cover\":1625,\"_video_demo_video_cover\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_cover\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"Learn More\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.gojuego.com\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button_style\",\"video_demo_buttons\":1,\"_video_demo_buttons\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons\",\"video_demo\":\"\",\"_video_demo\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c94\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/testimonials {\"name\":\"acf\/testimonials\",\"data\":{\"testimonials_headline\":\"VOICES FROM THE EF+MATH COMMUNITY\",\"_testimonials_headline\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_headline\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball creates joyful, physically active learning environments where conceptual understanding of fractions and executive function skills are developed together. Compared to other movement-based math programs, Fraction Ball distinguishes itself through its intentional integration of rigorous mathematical learning with kinesthetic engagement. It excels at fostering student collaboration, agency, and conceptual thinking.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"Rennie Center for Education Research and Policy, EF+Math Competitive Product Analysis\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"\\u0022Being able to engage in Fraction Ball as a teacher made me feel seen and I appreciated that my kids were finally getting seen. Their voices, and my voice, were being elevated in research, and I was excited to learn that the communities that I serve (primarily Black and Brown students) were going to finally make it into research, and have a space in that community of researchers.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"Lourdes Acevedo-Farag, R\\u0026D project team member\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball ran so smoothly this year, based on our suggestions from last year... We felt super valued, and we were able to execute the lessons with fidelity, based on our suggestions. My opinion and my voice mattered.\u201d \",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"Julie Laguna-Caturegli, district partner\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes\":3,\"_testimonials_quotes\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes\",\"testimonials\":\"\",\"_testimonials\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cb6\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/featured-resources {\"name\":\"acf\/featured-resources\",\"data\":{\"featured_resources_headline\":\"Research Highlights\",\"_featured_resources_headline\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_headline\",\"featured_resources_resources\":[\"910\",\"992\",\"1009\",\"1079\"],\"_featured_resources_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_resources\",\"featured_resources\":\"\",\"_featured_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cc9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/staff-teaser-grid {\"name\":\"acf\/staff-teaser-grid\",\"data\":{\"staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"Project Team\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_headline\",\"staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":[\"653\",\"654\",\"655\",\"656\",\"657\",\"659\",\"658\",\"661\",\"660\",\"662\",\"663\",\"664\",\"665\",\"666\",\"667\",\"668\",\"669\",\"670\",\"671\",\"566\",\"672\",\"673\",\"562\",\"674\",\"675\",\"676\"],\"_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01ce9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-row {\"name\":\"acf\/text-row\",\"data\":{\"text_row_headline\":\"Acknowledgments \",\"_text_row_headline\":\"field_text_row_text_row_headline\",\"text_row_subheading\":\"\",\"_text_row_subheading\":\"field_text_row_text_row_subheading\",\"text_row_content\":\"Fraction Ball thrives because of the educators, students, administrators, and community partners who bring playful math learning to life. We are especially grateful to the Santa Ana Unified School District, El Rancho Unified School District, Lynwood Unified School District, and El Sol Academy\u2014the community where Fraction Ball first took shape. Their commitment to joyful, equitable math learning continues to guide and inspire the work.\\r\\n\\r\\nWe also gratefully acknowledge the leadership of the University of California, Irvine, in partnership with Juego!.\",\"_text_row_content\":\"field_text_row_text_row_content\",\"text_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_text_row_buttons\":\"field_text_row_text_row_buttons\",\"text_row_alignment\":\"left\",\"_text_row_alignment\":\"field_text_row_text_row_alignment\",\"text_row\":\"\",\"_text_row\":\"field_text_row_text_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d09\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/full-width-cta {\"name\":\"acf\/full-width-cta\",\"data\":{\"full_width_cta_headline\":\"Explore Our R\\u0026D Projects\",\"_full_width_cta_headline\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_headline\",\"full_width_cta_subheading\":\"The EF+Math portfolio of R\\u0026D projects developed innovative math learning products and advanced research on mathematics learning, executive function skills, and equitable learning experiences using inclusive R\\u0026D methods.\",\"_full_width_cta_subheading\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_subheading\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"View All R\\u0026D Projects\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/projects\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button_style\",\"full_width_cta_buttons\":1,\"_full_width_cta_buttons\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons\",\"full_width_cta\":\"\",\"_full_width_cta\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d26\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","description":"","objectType":"Project","project-type":[{"name":"Evaluation Study","slug":"evaluation-study","term_taxonomy_id":29,"taxonomy":"project-type"},{"name":"Product","slug":"product","term_taxonomy_id":28,"taxonomy":"project-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:03:13","attachment":{"ID":812,"src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg","img":"<img width=\"1280\" height=\"1091\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg 1280w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-300x256.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1024x873.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-768x655.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-320x273.jpeg 320w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-640x546.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed.jpeg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/>"},"meta":[]}]}}},{"ID":661,"title":"Katherine T. Rhodes","altTitle":"Katherine T. Rhodes","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/staff\/katherine-rhodes\/","slug":"katherine-rhodes","content":"","description":"","objectType":"Staff","staff-type":[{"name":"R&amp;D Project Teams","slug":"rd-project-teams","term_taxonomy_id":8,"taxonomy":"staff-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:38:06","attachment":{"ID":"32","src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png","img":"<img width=\"612\" height=\"612\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png 612w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-320x320.png 320w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px\" \/>"},"meta":{"staff_metadata":{"name":"Katherine T. Rhodes","role":"Co-Principal Investigator","image":false,"social_links":{"linkedin":"","facebook":"","x_twitter":"","email":"ktrhodes@uci.edu"},"intro_text":"","bio":"","projects":[{"ID":519,"title":"Fraction Ball","altTitle":"Fraction Ball","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/project\/fraction-ball\/","slug":"fraction-ball","content":"<!-- wp:acf\/feature-row {\"name\":\"acf\/feature-row\",\"data\":{\"feature_row_headline\":\"Project Approach\",\"_feature_row_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_headline\",\"feature_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball\u2019s approach weaves together math, executive function skills, and equity to help students deepen their understanding of rational numbers through outdoor games and classroom activities. \",\"_feature_row_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_subheading\",\"feature_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_feature_row_buttons\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_buttons\",\"feature_row_card_type\":\"category_card\",\"_feature_row_card_type\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_card_type\",\"feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"Math.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"Mathematics\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"Playful embodied cognition approach to rational number understanding in grades 4\u20135, including fraction magnitude, equivalence, addition\/subtraction, and conversions.\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"Executive-Function.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"Executive Function Skills\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eOpportunities to adaptively monitor, plan, update, and shift thinking within reasoning about rational numbers in basketball games and strategies.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_2_icon\":\"Equity.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_2_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_2_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_2_headline\":\"Equitable Learning Experiences\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eImproving math-related emotions and teamwork through collaborative learning. Team roles provide opportunities to participate in a variety of ways, ensuring that all students, including multilingual learners, can be involved.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards\":3,\"_feature_row_cards\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards\",\"feature_row_padding\":\"both\",\"_feature_row_padding\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_padding\",\"feature_row\":\"\",\"_feature_row\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb0188b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/stat-row {\"name\":\"acf\/stat-row\",\"data\":{\"stat_row_headline\":\"Project Impact \",\"_stat_row_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_headline\",\"stat_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball has produced measurable impact in classrooms, reaching thousands of students and educators, while contributing research findings to advance math education.\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"4,400\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"students reached through Fraction Ball\u2019s work with the EF+Math program\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"23\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"school partners involved in research, development, co-design, and evaluation \\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"45+\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"publications and resources disseminated with Fraction Ball\u2019s learnings\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container\":3,\"_stat_row_stat_container\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container\",\"stat_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_stat_row_buttons\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_buttons\",\"stat_row_background_image\":1414,\"_stat_row_background_image\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_background_image\",\"stat_row\":\"\",\"_stat_row\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb018de\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-list {\"name\":\"acf\/text-list\",\"data\":{\"text_list_headline\":\"Key Insights and Innovations \",\"_text_list_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"Physical movement makes learning fractions collaborative and joyful\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/brilliantfuture.uci.edu\/fraction-ball-math-game-spreads-with-help-of-philanthropy\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003ereimagines the schoolyard\\u003c\/a\\u003e as a place for learning by overlaying fraction and decimal markings onto an existing basketball court that becomes the basis for Fraction Ball\u2019s court-based games. The traditional 3-point arc becomes 1 point, while smaller arcs represent fractional points. A number line tracks the score, allowing students to visualize magnitude and practice converting between fractions and decimals as they play. This embodied learning approach\u2014where physical movement connects directly to mathematical concepts\u2014decreases math anxiety while building rational number understanding, creating an environment for students where math can be collaborative and joyful.\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball leads to positive impacts on  fraction learning and contextualized EF skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"Findings from across two independent evaluation studies were consistent in showing that Fraction Ball had statistically significant, positive impacts on measures of fraction learning and contextualized EF skills. Notably, \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/osf.io\/najd6\/files\/mf7n9\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eevaluation study findings from 2024-25\\u003c\/a\\u003e showed that students who used Fraction Ball performed significantly better on an overall assessment of fraction learning and improved by more than 12-percentile-points on fractions-to-decimals conversion items, when compared to students who did not use Fraction Ball. Across both studies, students who used Fraction Ball also demonstrated stronger planning skills on a measure of EF skills in a math-based context.\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"Bottle Cap Bonanza: Student-designed game connects the court to the classroom\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"Students from an \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-the-femineers\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eall-female engineering afterschool club\\u003c\/a\\u003e in Southern California invented \\u003ci\\u003eBottle Cap Bonanza\\u003c\/i\\u003e\u2014a tabletop game that teaches fraction concepts through shuffleboard-style play using everyday materials like bottle caps and a poster board. Recognizing the value of this student-created innovation, the Fraction Ball team integrated it as a core component of their classroom activities, illustrating how co-design can elevate student voice and create more effective approaches to math learning.\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball empowers teachers to engage in student-centered, collaborative learning\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball creates space for interactive, collaborative problem solving where students lead with confidence. When teachers step back and allow students to own the learning on the court\u2014making decisions, collaborating with peers, and discovering mathematical connections\u2014their \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/www.k12dive.com\/news\/students-math-fractions-decimals-play-executive-function-California\/722657\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003einstructional approach\\u003c\/a\\u003e fundamentally shifts. Teachers see new levels of teamwork, sportsmanship, and joy that ripple beyond the court, nourishing academic growth and uniquely human skills. They report that this experience has changed how they think about delivering math instruction in their classroom, inspiring them to bring more student-centered, collaborative practices to other lessons and learning contexts.\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"Playful assessment captures both math and executive function skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"The \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly-video-game-demo\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eFraction Ball \\u0022Exactly\u201d video game\\u003c\/a\\u003e offers educators valuable insights into their students\u2019 learning through a \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003evalidated, playful assessment\\u003c\/a\\u003e of planning skills, assessed within the context of fractions. This stealth assessment gathers data useful to researchers and educators, while avoiding testing burden on students or invoking test anxiety.\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items\":5,\"_text_list_list_items\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items\",\"text_list\":\"\",\"_text_list\":\"field_text_list_text_list\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c4b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/video-demo {\"name\":\"acf\/video-demo\",\"data\":{\"video_demo_headline\":\"See Fraction Ball in Action\",\"_video_demo_headline\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_headline\",\"video_demo_subheading\":\"\",\"_video_demo_subheading\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_subheading\",\"video_demo_video_url\":\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=6ps6nfIA738\",\"_video_demo_video_url\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_url\",\"video_demo_video_cover\":1625,\"_video_demo_video_cover\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_cover\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"Learn More\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.gojuego.com\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button_style\",\"video_demo_buttons\":1,\"_video_demo_buttons\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons\",\"video_demo\":\"\",\"_video_demo\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c94\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/testimonials {\"name\":\"acf\/testimonials\",\"data\":{\"testimonials_headline\":\"VOICES FROM THE EF+MATH COMMUNITY\",\"_testimonials_headline\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_headline\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball creates joyful, physically active learning environments where conceptual understanding of fractions and executive function skills are developed together. Compared to other movement-based math programs, Fraction Ball distinguishes itself through its intentional integration of rigorous mathematical learning with kinesthetic engagement. It excels at fostering student collaboration, agency, and conceptual thinking.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"Rennie Center for Education Research and Policy, EF+Math Competitive Product Analysis\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"\\u0022Being able to engage in Fraction Ball as a teacher made me feel seen and I appreciated that my kids were finally getting seen. Their voices, and my voice, were being elevated in research, and I was excited to learn that the communities that I serve (primarily Black and Brown students) were going to finally make it into research, and have a space in that community of researchers.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"Lourdes Acevedo-Farag, R\\u0026D project team member\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball ran so smoothly this year, based on our suggestions from last year... We felt super valued, and we were able to execute the lessons with fidelity, based on our suggestions. My opinion and my voice mattered.\u201d \",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"Julie Laguna-Caturegli, district partner\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes\":3,\"_testimonials_quotes\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes\",\"testimonials\":\"\",\"_testimonials\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cb6\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/featured-resources {\"name\":\"acf\/featured-resources\",\"data\":{\"featured_resources_headline\":\"Research Highlights\",\"_featured_resources_headline\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_headline\",\"featured_resources_resources\":[\"910\",\"992\",\"1009\",\"1079\"],\"_featured_resources_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_resources\",\"featured_resources\":\"\",\"_featured_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cc9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/staff-teaser-grid {\"name\":\"acf\/staff-teaser-grid\",\"data\":{\"staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"Project Team\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_headline\",\"staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":[\"653\",\"654\",\"655\",\"656\",\"657\",\"659\",\"658\",\"661\",\"660\",\"662\",\"663\",\"664\",\"665\",\"666\",\"667\",\"668\",\"669\",\"670\",\"671\",\"566\",\"672\",\"673\",\"562\",\"674\",\"675\",\"676\"],\"_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01ce9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-row {\"name\":\"acf\/text-row\",\"data\":{\"text_row_headline\":\"Acknowledgments \",\"_text_row_headline\":\"field_text_row_text_row_headline\",\"text_row_subheading\":\"\",\"_text_row_subheading\":\"field_text_row_text_row_subheading\",\"text_row_content\":\"Fraction Ball thrives because of the educators, students, administrators, and community partners who bring playful math learning to life. We are especially grateful to the Santa Ana Unified School District, El Rancho Unified School District, Lynwood Unified School District, and El Sol Academy\u2014the community where Fraction Ball first took shape. Their commitment to joyful, equitable math learning continues to guide and inspire the work.\\r\\n\\r\\nWe also gratefully acknowledge the leadership of the University of California, Irvine, in partnership with Juego!.\",\"_text_row_content\":\"field_text_row_text_row_content\",\"text_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_text_row_buttons\":\"field_text_row_text_row_buttons\",\"text_row_alignment\":\"left\",\"_text_row_alignment\":\"field_text_row_text_row_alignment\",\"text_row\":\"\",\"_text_row\":\"field_text_row_text_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d09\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/full-width-cta {\"name\":\"acf\/full-width-cta\",\"data\":{\"full_width_cta_headline\":\"Explore Our R\\u0026D Projects\",\"_full_width_cta_headline\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_headline\",\"full_width_cta_subheading\":\"The EF+Math portfolio of R\\u0026D projects developed innovative math learning products and advanced research on mathematics learning, executive function skills, and equitable learning experiences using inclusive R\\u0026D methods.\",\"_full_width_cta_subheading\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_subheading\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"View All R\\u0026D Projects\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/projects\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button_style\",\"full_width_cta_buttons\":1,\"_full_width_cta_buttons\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons\",\"full_width_cta\":\"\",\"_full_width_cta\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d26\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","description":"","objectType":"Project","project-type":[{"name":"Evaluation Study","slug":"evaluation-study","term_taxonomy_id":29,"taxonomy":"project-type"},{"name":"Product","slug":"product","term_taxonomy_id":28,"taxonomy":"project-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:03:13","attachment":{"ID":812,"src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg","img":"<img width=\"1280\" height=\"1091\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg 1280w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-300x256.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1024x873.jpeg 1024w, 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21:38:06","attachment":{"ID":"32","src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png","img":"<img width=\"612\" height=\"612\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png 612w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-320x320.png 320w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px\" \/>"},"meta":{"staff_metadata":{"name":"June Ahn","role":"Co-Principal Investigator","image":false,"social_links":{"linkedin":"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/ahnjune\/","facebook":"","x_twitter":"","email":"junea@uci.edu"},"intro_text":"","bio":"","projects":[{"ID":519,"title":"Fraction Ball","altTitle":"Fraction Ball","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/project\/fraction-ball\/","slug":"fraction-ball","content":"<!-- wp:acf\/feature-row {\"name\":\"acf\/feature-row\",\"data\":{\"feature_row_headline\":\"Project Approach\",\"_feature_row_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_headline\",\"feature_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball\u2019s approach weaves together math, executive function skills, and equity to help students deepen their understanding of rational numbers through outdoor games and classroom activities. \",\"_feature_row_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_subheading\",\"feature_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_feature_row_buttons\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_buttons\",\"feature_row_card_type\":\"category_card\",\"_feature_row_card_type\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_card_type\",\"feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"Math.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"Mathematics\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"Playful embodied cognition approach to rational number understanding in grades 4\u20135, including fraction magnitude, equivalence, addition\/subtraction, and conversions.\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"Executive-Function.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"Executive Function Skills\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eOpportunities to adaptively monitor, plan, update, and shift thinking within reasoning about rational numbers in basketball games and strategies.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_2_icon\":\"Equity.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_2_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_2_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_2_headline\":\"Equitable Learning Experiences\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eImproving math-related emotions and teamwork through collaborative learning. Team roles provide opportunities to participate in a variety of ways, ensuring that all students, including multilingual learners, can be involved.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards\":3,\"_feature_row_cards\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards\",\"feature_row_padding\":\"both\",\"_feature_row_padding\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_padding\",\"feature_row\":\"\",\"_feature_row\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb0188b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/stat-row {\"name\":\"acf\/stat-row\",\"data\":{\"stat_row_headline\":\"Project Impact \",\"_stat_row_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_headline\",\"stat_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball has produced measurable impact in classrooms, reaching thousands of students and educators, while contributing research findings to advance math education.\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"4,400\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"students reached through Fraction Ball\u2019s work with the EF+Math program\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"23\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"school partners involved in research, development, co-design, and evaluation \\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"45+\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"publications and resources disseminated with Fraction Ball\u2019s learnings\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container\":3,\"_stat_row_stat_container\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container\",\"stat_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_stat_row_buttons\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_buttons\",\"stat_row_background_image\":1414,\"_stat_row_background_image\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_background_image\",\"stat_row\":\"\",\"_stat_row\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb018de\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-list {\"name\":\"acf\/text-list\",\"data\":{\"text_list_headline\":\"Key Insights and Innovations \",\"_text_list_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"Physical movement makes learning fractions collaborative and joyful\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/brilliantfuture.uci.edu\/fraction-ball-math-game-spreads-with-help-of-philanthropy\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003ereimagines the schoolyard\\u003c\/a\\u003e as a place for learning by overlaying fraction and decimal markings onto an existing basketball court that becomes the basis for Fraction Ball\u2019s court-based games. The traditional 3-point arc becomes 1 point, while smaller arcs represent fractional points. A number line tracks the score, allowing students to visualize magnitude and practice converting between fractions and decimals as they play. This embodied learning approach\u2014where physical movement connects directly to mathematical concepts\u2014decreases math anxiety while building rational number understanding, creating an environment for students where math can be collaborative and joyful.\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball leads to positive impacts on  fraction learning and contextualized EF skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"Findings from across two independent evaluation studies were consistent in showing that Fraction Ball had statistically significant, positive impacts on measures of fraction learning and contextualized EF skills. Notably, \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/osf.io\/najd6\/files\/mf7n9\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eevaluation study findings from 2024-25\\u003c\/a\\u003e showed that students who used Fraction Ball performed significantly better on an overall assessment of fraction learning and improved by more than 12-percentile-points on fractions-to-decimals conversion items, when compared to students who did not use Fraction Ball. Across both studies, students who used Fraction Ball also demonstrated stronger planning skills on a measure of EF skills in a math-based context.\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"Bottle Cap Bonanza: Student-designed game connects the court to the classroom\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"Students from an \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-the-femineers\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eall-female engineering afterschool club\\u003c\/a\\u003e in Southern California invented \\u003ci\\u003eBottle Cap Bonanza\\u003c\/i\\u003e\u2014a tabletop game that teaches fraction concepts through shuffleboard-style play using everyday materials like bottle caps and a poster board. Recognizing the value of this student-created innovation, the Fraction Ball team integrated it as a core component of their classroom activities, illustrating how co-design can elevate student voice and create more effective approaches to math learning.\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball empowers teachers to engage in student-centered, collaborative learning\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball creates space for interactive, collaborative problem solving where students lead with confidence. When teachers step back and allow students to own the learning on the court\u2014making decisions, collaborating with peers, and discovering mathematical connections\u2014their \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/www.k12dive.com\/news\/students-math-fractions-decimals-play-executive-function-California\/722657\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003einstructional approach\\u003c\/a\\u003e fundamentally shifts. Teachers see new levels of teamwork, sportsmanship, and joy that ripple beyond the court, nourishing academic growth and uniquely human skills. They report that this experience has changed how they think about delivering math instruction in their classroom, inspiring them to bring more student-centered, collaborative practices to other lessons and learning contexts.\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"Playful assessment captures both math and executive function skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"The \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly-video-game-demo\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eFraction Ball \\u0022Exactly\u201d video game\\u003c\/a\\u003e offers educators valuable insights into their students\u2019 learning through a \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003evalidated, playful assessment\\u003c\/a\\u003e of planning skills, assessed within the context of fractions. This stealth assessment gathers data useful to researchers and educators, while avoiding testing burden on students or invoking test anxiety.\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items\":5,\"_text_list_list_items\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items\",\"text_list\":\"\",\"_text_list\":\"field_text_list_text_list\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c4b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/video-demo {\"name\":\"acf\/video-demo\",\"data\":{\"video_demo_headline\":\"See Fraction Ball in Action\",\"_video_demo_headline\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_headline\",\"video_demo_subheading\":\"\",\"_video_demo_subheading\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_subheading\",\"video_demo_video_url\":\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=6ps6nfIA738\",\"_video_demo_video_url\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_url\",\"video_demo_video_cover\":1625,\"_video_demo_video_cover\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_cover\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"Learn More\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.gojuego.com\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button_style\",\"video_demo_buttons\":1,\"_video_demo_buttons\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons\",\"video_demo\":\"\",\"_video_demo\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c94\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/testimonials {\"name\":\"acf\/testimonials\",\"data\":{\"testimonials_headline\":\"VOICES FROM THE EF+MATH COMMUNITY\",\"_testimonials_headline\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_headline\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball creates joyful, physically active learning environments where conceptual understanding of fractions and executive function skills are developed together. Compared to other movement-based math programs, Fraction Ball distinguishes itself through its intentional integration of rigorous mathematical learning with kinesthetic engagement. It excels at fostering student collaboration, agency, and conceptual thinking.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"Rennie Center for Education Research and Policy, EF+Math Competitive Product Analysis\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"\\u0022Being able to engage in Fraction Ball as a teacher made me feel seen and I appreciated that my kids were finally getting seen. Their voices, and my voice, were being elevated in research, and I was excited to learn that the communities that I serve (primarily Black and Brown students) were going to finally make it into research, and have a space in that community of researchers.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"Lourdes Acevedo-Farag, R\\u0026D project team member\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball ran so smoothly this year, based on our suggestions from last year... We felt super valued, and we were able to execute the lessons with fidelity, based on our suggestions. My opinion and my voice mattered.\u201d \",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"Julie Laguna-Caturegli, district partner\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes\":3,\"_testimonials_quotes\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes\",\"testimonials\":\"\",\"_testimonials\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cb6\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/featured-resources {\"name\":\"acf\/featured-resources\",\"data\":{\"featured_resources_headline\":\"Research Highlights\",\"_featured_resources_headline\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_headline\",\"featured_resources_resources\":[\"910\",\"992\",\"1009\",\"1079\"],\"_featured_resources_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_resources\",\"featured_resources\":\"\",\"_featured_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cc9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/staff-teaser-grid {\"name\":\"acf\/staff-teaser-grid\",\"data\":{\"staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"Project Team\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_headline\",\"staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":[\"653\",\"654\",\"655\",\"656\",\"657\",\"659\",\"658\",\"661\",\"660\",\"662\",\"663\",\"664\",\"665\",\"666\",\"667\",\"668\",\"669\",\"670\",\"671\",\"566\",\"672\",\"673\",\"562\",\"674\",\"675\",\"676\"],\"_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01ce9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-row {\"name\":\"acf\/text-row\",\"data\":{\"text_row_headline\":\"Acknowledgments \",\"_text_row_headline\":\"field_text_row_text_row_headline\",\"text_row_subheading\":\"\",\"_text_row_subheading\":\"field_text_row_text_row_subheading\",\"text_row_content\":\"Fraction Ball thrives because of the educators, students, administrators, and community partners who bring playful math learning to life. We are especially grateful to the Santa Ana Unified School District, El Rancho Unified School District, Lynwood Unified School District, and El Sol Academy\u2014the community where Fraction Ball first took shape. Their commitment to joyful, equitable math learning continues to guide and inspire the work.\\r\\n\\r\\nWe also gratefully acknowledge the leadership of the University of California, Irvine, in partnership with Juego!.\",\"_text_row_content\":\"field_text_row_text_row_content\",\"text_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_text_row_buttons\":\"field_text_row_text_row_buttons\",\"text_row_alignment\":\"left\",\"_text_row_alignment\":\"field_text_row_text_row_alignment\",\"text_row\":\"\",\"_text_row\":\"field_text_row_text_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d09\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/full-width-cta {\"name\":\"acf\/full-width-cta\",\"data\":{\"full_width_cta_headline\":\"Explore Our R\\u0026D Projects\",\"_full_width_cta_headline\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_headline\",\"full_width_cta_subheading\":\"The EF+Math portfolio of R\\u0026D projects developed innovative math learning products and advanced research on mathematics learning, executive function skills, and equitable learning experiences using inclusive R\\u0026D methods.\",\"_full_width_cta_subheading\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_subheading\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"View All R\\u0026D Projects\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/projects\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button_style\",\"full_width_cta_buttons\":1,\"_full_width_cta_buttons\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons\",\"full_width_cta\":\"\",\"_full_width_cta\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d26\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","description":"","objectType":"Project","project-type":[{"name":"Evaluation Study","slug":"evaluation-study","term_taxonomy_id":29,"taxonomy":"project-type"},{"name":"Product","slug":"product","term_taxonomy_id":28,"taxonomy":"project-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:03:13","attachment":{"ID":812,"src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg","img":"<img width=\"1280\" height=\"1091\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg 1280w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-300x256.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1024x873.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-768x655.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-320x273.jpeg 320w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-640x546.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed.jpeg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/>"},"meta":[]}]}}},{"ID":662,"title":"Kreshnik N. Begolli","altTitle":"Kreshnik N. Begolli","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/staff\/kreshnik-begolli\/","slug":"kreshnik-begolli","content":"","description":"","objectType":"Staff","staff-type":[{"name":"R&amp;D Project Teams","slug":"rd-project-teams","term_taxonomy_id":8,"taxonomy":"staff-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:38:06","attachment":{"ID":"32","src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png","img":"<img width=\"612\" height=\"612\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png 612w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-320x320.png 320w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px\" \/>"},"meta":{"staff_metadata":{"name":"Kreshnik N. Begolli","role":"Co-Principal Investigator","image":{"ID":840,"id":840,"title":"merage photo","filename":"merage-photo-e1766008754214.jpg","filesize":14764,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/merage-photo-e1766008754214.jpg","link":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/staff\/kreshnik-begolli\/merage-photo\/","alt":"","author":"1","description":"","caption":"","name":"merage-photo","status":"inherit","uploaded_to":662,"date":"2025-12-17 16:32:06","modified":"2025-12-17 16:32:06","menu_order":0,"mime_type":"image\/jpeg","type":"image","subtype":"jpeg","icon":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/wp\/wp-includes\/images\/media\/default.png","width":270,"height":270,"sizes":{"thumbnail":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/merage-photo-e1766008754214-150x150.jpg","thumbnail-width":150,"thumbnail-height":150,"medium":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/merage-photo-300x269.jpg","medium-width":300,"medium-height":269,"medium_large":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/merage-photo-e1766008754214.jpg","medium_large-width":270,"medium_large-height":270,"large":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/merage-photo-e1766008754214.jpg","large-width":270,"large-height":270,"1536x1536":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/merage-photo-e1766008754214.jpg","1536x1536-width":270,"1536x1536-height":270,"2048x2048":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/merage-photo-e1766008754214.jpg","2048x2048-width":270,"2048x2048-height":270,"w320":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/merage-photo-e1766008754214.jpg","w320-width":270,"w320-height":270,"w640":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/merage-photo-e1766008754214.jpg","w640-width":270,"w640-height":270,"w1280":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/merage-photo-e1766008754214.jpg","w1280-width":270,"w1280-height":270,"w1920":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/merage-photo-e1766008754214.jpg","w1920-width":270,"w1920-height":270,"w2560":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/merage-photo-e1766008754214.jpg","w2560-width":270,"w2560-height":270,"gform-image-choice-sm":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/merage-photo-e1766008754214.jpg","gform-image-choice-sm-width":270,"gform-image-choice-sm-height":270,"gform-image-choice-md":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/merage-photo-e1766008754214.jpg","gform-image-choice-md-width":270,"gform-image-choice-md-height":270,"gform-image-choice-lg":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/merage-photo-e1766008754214.jpg","gform-image-choice-lg-width":270,"gform-image-choice-lg-height":270}},"social_links":{"linkedin":"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/kbegolli\/","facebook":"","x_twitter":"","email":"kbegolli@uci.edu"},"intro_text":"","bio":"<p>Dr. Kreshnik \u201cKeka\u201d Begolli is a scientist whose work bridges cognitive science, education, and design. He leads large, multi-partner research initiatives focused on playful, evidence-based learning\u2014transforming education across the globe. His research integrates Design-Based Implementation Research (DBIR) and Randomized Controlled Trials (RCT) to advance equitable, scalable approaches to learning. With over 15 years of cross-sector experience, he partners with educators, policymakers, and communities to bring science to practice. Dr. Begolli\u2019s work centers on reimagining education to develop the whole child in a way that builds academics, confidence, and a community of joyful learners.<\/p>\n","projects":[{"ID":519,"title":"Fraction Ball","altTitle":"Fraction Ball","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/project\/fraction-ball\/","slug":"fraction-ball","content":"<!-- wp:acf\/feature-row {\"name\":\"acf\/feature-row\",\"data\":{\"feature_row_headline\":\"Project Approach\",\"_feature_row_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_headline\",\"feature_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball\u2019s approach weaves together math, executive function skills, and equity to help students deepen their understanding of rational numbers through outdoor games and classroom activities. \",\"_feature_row_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_subheading\",\"feature_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_feature_row_buttons\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_buttons\",\"feature_row_card_type\":\"category_card\",\"_feature_row_card_type\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_card_type\",\"feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"Math.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"Mathematics\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"Playful embodied cognition approach to rational number understanding in grades 4\u20135, including fraction magnitude, equivalence, addition\/subtraction, and conversions.\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"Executive-Function.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"Executive Function Skills\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eOpportunities to adaptively monitor, plan, update, and shift thinking within reasoning about rational numbers in basketball games and strategies.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_2_icon\":\"Equity.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_2_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_2_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_2_headline\":\"Equitable Learning Experiences\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eImproving math-related emotions and teamwork through collaborative learning. Team roles provide opportunities to participate in a variety of ways, ensuring that all students, including multilingual learners, can be involved.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards\":3,\"_feature_row_cards\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards\",\"feature_row_padding\":\"both\",\"_feature_row_padding\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_padding\",\"feature_row\":\"\",\"_feature_row\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb0188b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/stat-row {\"name\":\"acf\/stat-row\",\"data\":{\"stat_row_headline\":\"Project Impact \",\"_stat_row_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_headline\",\"stat_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball has produced measurable impact in classrooms, reaching thousands of students and educators, while contributing research findings to advance math education.\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"4,400\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"students reached through Fraction Ball\u2019s work with the EF+Math program\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"23\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"school partners involved in research, development, co-design, and evaluation \\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"45+\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"publications and resources disseminated with Fraction Ball\u2019s learnings\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container\":3,\"_stat_row_stat_container\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container\",\"stat_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_stat_row_buttons\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_buttons\",\"stat_row_background_image\":1414,\"_stat_row_background_image\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_background_image\",\"stat_row\":\"\",\"_stat_row\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb018de\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-list {\"name\":\"acf\/text-list\",\"data\":{\"text_list_headline\":\"Key Insights and Innovations \",\"_text_list_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"Physical movement makes learning fractions collaborative and joyful\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/brilliantfuture.uci.edu\/fraction-ball-math-game-spreads-with-help-of-philanthropy\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003ereimagines the schoolyard\\u003c\/a\\u003e as a place for learning by overlaying fraction and decimal markings onto an existing basketball court that becomes the basis for Fraction Ball\u2019s court-based games. The traditional 3-point arc becomes 1 point, while smaller arcs represent fractional points. A number line tracks the score, allowing students to visualize magnitude and practice converting between fractions and decimals as they play. This embodied learning approach\u2014where physical movement connects directly to mathematical concepts\u2014decreases math anxiety while building rational number understanding, creating an environment for students where math can be collaborative and joyful.\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball leads to positive impacts on  fraction learning and contextualized EF skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"Findings from across two independent evaluation studies were consistent in showing that Fraction Ball had statistically significant, positive impacts on measures of fraction learning and contextualized EF skills. Notably, \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/osf.io\/najd6\/files\/mf7n9\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eevaluation study findings from 2024-25\\u003c\/a\\u003e showed that students who used Fraction Ball performed significantly better on an overall assessment of fraction learning and improved by more than 12-percentile-points on fractions-to-decimals conversion items, when compared to students who did not use Fraction Ball. Across both studies, students who used Fraction Ball also demonstrated stronger planning skills on a measure of EF skills in a math-based context.\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"Bottle Cap Bonanza: Student-designed game connects the court to the classroom\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"Students from an \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-the-femineers\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eall-female engineering afterschool club\\u003c\/a\\u003e in Southern California invented \\u003ci\\u003eBottle Cap Bonanza\\u003c\/i\\u003e\u2014a tabletop game that teaches fraction concepts through shuffleboard-style play using everyday materials like bottle caps and a poster board. Recognizing the value of this student-created innovation, the Fraction Ball team integrated it as a core component of their classroom activities, illustrating how co-design can elevate student voice and create more effective approaches to math learning.\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball empowers teachers to engage in student-centered, collaborative learning\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball creates space for interactive, collaborative problem solving where students lead with confidence. When teachers step back and allow students to own the learning on the court\u2014making decisions, collaborating with peers, and discovering mathematical connections\u2014their \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/www.k12dive.com\/news\/students-math-fractions-decimals-play-executive-function-California\/722657\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003einstructional approach\\u003c\/a\\u003e fundamentally shifts. Teachers see new levels of teamwork, sportsmanship, and joy that ripple beyond the court, nourishing academic growth and uniquely human skills. They report that this experience has changed how they think about delivering math instruction in their classroom, inspiring them to bring more student-centered, collaborative practices to other lessons and learning contexts.\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"Playful assessment captures both math and executive function skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"The \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly-video-game-demo\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eFraction Ball \\u0022Exactly\u201d video game\\u003c\/a\\u003e offers educators valuable insights into their students\u2019 learning through a \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003evalidated, playful assessment\\u003c\/a\\u003e of planning skills, assessed within the context of fractions. This stealth assessment gathers data useful to researchers and educators, while avoiding testing burden on students or invoking test anxiety.\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items\":5,\"_text_list_list_items\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items\",\"text_list\":\"\",\"_text_list\":\"field_text_list_text_list\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c4b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/video-demo {\"name\":\"acf\/video-demo\",\"data\":{\"video_demo_headline\":\"See Fraction Ball in Action\",\"_video_demo_headline\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_headline\",\"video_demo_subheading\":\"\",\"_video_demo_subheading\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_subheading\",\"video_demo_video_url\":\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=6ps6nfIA738\",\"_video_demo_video_url\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_url\",\"video_demo_video_cover\":1625,\"_video_demo_video_cover\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_cover\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"Learn More\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.gojuego.com\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button_style\",\"video_demo_buttons\":1,\"_video_demo_buttons\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons\",\"video_demo\":\"\",\"_video_demo\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c94\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/testimonials {\"name\":\"acf\/testimonials\",\"data\":{\"testimonials_headline\":\"VOICES FROM THE EF+MATH COMMUNITY\",\"_testimonials_headline\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_headline\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball creates joyful, physically active learning environments where conceptual understanding of fractions and executive function skills are developed together. Compared to other movement-based math programs, Fraction Ball distinguishes itself through its intentional integration of rigorous mathematical learning with kinesthetic engagement. It excels at fostering student collaboration, agency, and conceptual thinking.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"Rennie Center for Education Research and Policy, EF+Math Competitive Product Analysis\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"\\u0022Being able to engage in Fraction Ball as a teacher made me feel seen and I appreciated that my kids were finally getting seen. Their voices, and my voice, were being elevated in research, and I was excited to learn that the communities that I serve (primarily Black and Brown students) were going to finally make it into research, and have a space in that community of researchers.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"Lourdes Acevedo-Farag, R\\u0026D project team member\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball ran so smoothly this year, based on our suggestions from last year... We felt super valued, and we were able to execute the lessons with fidelity, based on our suggestions. My opinion and my voice mattered.\u201d \",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"Julie Laguna-Caturegli, district partner\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes\":3,\"_testimonials_quotes\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes\",\"testimonials\":\"\",\"_testimonials\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cb6\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/featured-resources {\"name\":\"acf\/featured-resources\",\"data\":{\"featured_resources_headline\":\"Research Highlights\",\"_featured_resources_headline\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_headline\",\"featured_resources_resources\":[\"910\",\"992\",\"1009\",\"1079\"],\"_featured_resources_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_resources\",\"featured_resources\":\"\",\"_featured_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cc9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/staff-teaser-grid {\"name\":\"acf\/staff-teaser-grid\",\"data\":{\"staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"Project Team\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_headline\",\"staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":[\"653\",\"654\",\"655\",\"656\",\"657\",\"659\",\"658\",\"661\",\"660\",\"662\",\"663\",\"664\",\"665\",\"666\",\"667\",\"668\",\"669\",\"670\",\"671\",\"566\",\"672\",\"673\",\"562\",\"674\",\"675\",\"676\"],\"_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01ce9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-row {\"name\":\"acf\/text-row\",\"data\":{\"text_row_headline\":\"Acknowledgments \",\"_text_row_headline\":\"field_text_row_text_row_headline\",\"text_row_subheading\":\"\",\"_text_row_subheading\":\"field_text_row_text_row_subheading\",\"text_row_content\":\"Fraction Ball thrives because of the educators, students, administrators, and community partners who bring playful math learning to life. We are especially grateful to the Santa Ana Unified School District, El Rancho Unified School District, Lynwood Unified School District, and El Sol Academy\u2014the community where Fraction Ball first took shape. Their commitment to joyful, equitable math learning continues to guide and inspire the work.\\r\\n\\r\\nWe also gratefully acknowledge the leadership of the University of California, Irvine, in partnership with Juego!.\",\"_text_row_content\":\"field_text_row_text_row_content\",\"text_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_text_row_buttons\":\"field_text_row_text_row_buttons\",\"text_row_alignment\":\"left\",\"_text_row_alignment\":\"field_text_row_text_row_alignment\",\"text_row\":\"\",\"_text_row\":\"field_text_row_text_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d09\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/full-width-cta {\"name\":\"acf\/full-width-cta\",\"data\":{\"full_width_cta_headline\":\"Explore Our R\\u0026D Projects\",\"_full_width_cta_headline\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_headline\",\"full_width_cta_subheading\":\"The EF+Math portfolio of R\\u0026D projects developed innovative math learning products and advanced research on mathematics learning, executive function skills, and equitable learning experiences using inclusive R\\u0026D methods.\",\"_full_width_cta_subheading\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_subheading\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"View All R\\u0026D Projects\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/projects\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button_style\",\"full_width_cta_buttons\":1,\"_full_width_cta_buttons\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons\",\"full_width_cta\":\"\",\"_full_width_cta\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d26\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","description":"","objectType":"Project","project-type":[{"name":"Evaluation Study","slug":"evaluation-study","term_taxonomy_id":29,"taxonomy":"project-type"},{"name":"Product","slug":"product","term_taxonomy_id":28,"taxonomy":"project-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:03:13","attachment":{"ID":812,"src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg","img":"<img width=\"1280\" height=\"1091\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg 1280w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-300x256.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1024x873.jpeg 1024w, 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21:38:06","attachment":{"ID":"32","src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png","img":"<img width=\"612\" height=\"612\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png 612w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-320x320.png 320w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px\" \/>"},"meta":{"staff_metadata":{"name":"Laura Hernandez","role":"Project Coordinator","image":false,"social_links":{"linkedin":"","facebook":"","x_twitter":"","email":"laurah8@uci.edu"},"intro_text":"","bio":"","projects":[{"ID":519,"title":"Fraction Ball","altTitle":"Fraction Ball","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/project\/fraction-ball\/","slug":"fraction-ball","content":"<!-- wp:acf\/feature-row {\"name\":\"acf\/feature-row\",\"data\":{\"feature_row_headline\":\"Project Approach\",\"_feature_row_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_headline\",\"feature_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball\u2019s approach weaves together math, executive function skills, and equity to help students deepen their understanding of rational numbers through outdoor games and classroom activities. \",\"_feature_row_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_subheading\",\"feature_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_feature_row_buttons\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_buttons\",\"feature_row_card_type\":\"category_card\",\"_feature_row_card_type\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_card_type\",\"feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"Math.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"Mathematics\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"Playful embodied cognition approach to rational number understanding in grades 4\u20135, including fraction magnitude, equivalence, addition\/subtraction, and conversions.\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"Executive-Function.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"Executive Function Skills\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eOpportunities to adaptively monitor, plan, update, and shift thinking within reasoning about rational numbers in basketball games and 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Team roles provide opportunities to participate in a variety of ways, ensuring that all students, including multilingual learners, can be involved.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards\":3,\"_feature_row_cards\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards\",\"feature_row_padding\":\"both\",\"_feature_row_padding\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_padding\",\"feature_row\":\"\",\"_feature_row\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb0188b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/stat-row {\"name\":\"acf\/stat-row\",\"data\":{\"stat_row_headline\":\"Project Impact \",\"_stat_row_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_headline\",\"stat_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball has produced measurable impact in classrooms, reaching thousands of students and educators, while contributing research findings to advance math education.\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"4,400\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"students reached through Fraction Ball\u2019s work with the EF+Math program\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"23\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"school partners involved in research, development, co-design, and evaluation \\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"45+\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"publications and resources disseminated with Fraction Ball\u2019s learnings\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container\":3,\"_stat_row_stat_container\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container\",\"stat_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_stat_row_buttons\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_buttons\",\"stat_row_background_image\":1414,\"_stat_row_background_image\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_background_image\",\"stat_row\":\"\",\"_stat_row\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb018de\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-list {\"name\":\"acf\/text-list\",\"data\":{\"text_list_headline\":\"Key Insights and Innovations \",\"_text_list_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"Physical movement makes learning fractions collaborative and joyful\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/brilliantfuture.uci.edu\/fraction-ball-math-game-spreads-with-help-of-philanthropy\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003ereimagines the schoolyard\\u003c\/a\\u003e as a place for learning by overlaying fraction and decimal markings onto an existing basketball court that becomes the basis for Fraction Ball\u2019s court-based games. The traditional 3-point arc becomes 1 point, while smaller arcs represent fractional points. A number line tracks the score, allowing students to visualize magnitude and practice converting between fractions and decimals as they play. This embodied learning approach\u2014where physical movement connects directly to mathematical concepts\u2014decreases math anxiety while building rational number understanding, creating an environment for students where math can be collaborative and joyful.\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball leads to positive impacts on  fraction learning and contextualized EF skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"Findings from across two independent evaluation studies were consistent in showing that Fraction Ball had statistically significant, positive impacts on measures of fraction learning and contextualized EF skills. Notably, \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/osf.io\/najd6\/files\/mf7n9\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eevaluation study findings from 2024-25\\u003c\/a\\u003e showed that students who used Fraction Ball performed significantly better on an overall assessment of fraction learning and improved by more than 12-percentile-points on fractions-to-decimals conversion items, when compared to students who did not use Fraction Ball. Across both studies, students who used Fraction Ball also demonstrated stronger planning skills on a measure of EF skills in a math-based context.\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"Bottle Cap Bonanza: Student-designed game connects the court to the classroom\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"Students from an \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-the-femineers\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eall-female engineering afterschool club\\u003c\/a\\u003e in Southern California invented \\u003ci\\u003eBottle Cap Bonanza\\u003c\/i\\u003e\u2014a tabletop game that teaches fraction concepts through shuffleboard-style play using everyday materials like bottle caps and a poster board. Recognizing the value of this student-created innovation, the Fraction Ball team integrated it as a core component of their classroom activities, illustrating how co-design can elevate student voice and create more effective approaches to math learning.\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball empowers teachers to engage in student-centered, collaborative learning\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball creates space for interactive, collaborative problem solving where students lead with confidence. When teachers step back and allow students to own the learning on the court\u2014making decisions, collaborating with peers, and discovering mathematical connections\u2014their \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/www.k12dive.com\/news\/students-math-fractions-decimals-play-executive-function-California\/722657\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003einstructional approach\\u003c\/a\\u003e fundamentally shifts. Teachers see new levels of teamwork, sportsmanship, and joy that ripple beyond the court, nourishing academic growth and uniquely human skills. They report that this experience has changed how they think about delivering math instruction in their classroom, inspiring them to bring more student-centered, collaborative practices to other lessons and learning contexts.\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"Playful assessment captures both math and executive function skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"The \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly-video-game-demo\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eFraction Ball \\u0022Exactly\u201d video game\\u003c\/a\\u003e offers educators valuable insights into their students\u2019 learning through a \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003evalidated, playful assessment\\u003c\/a\\u003e of planning skills, assessed within the context of fractions. This stealth assessment gathers data useful to researchers and educators, while avoiding testing burden on students or invoking test anxiety.\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items\":5,\"_text_list_list_items\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items\",\"text_list\":\"\",\"_text_list\":\"field_text_list_text_list\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c4b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/video-demo {\"name\":\"acf\/video-demo\",\"data\":{\"video_demo_headline\":\"See Fraction Ball in Action\",\"_video_demo_headline\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_headline\",\"video_demo_subheading\":\"\",\"_video_demo_subheading\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_subheading\",\"video_demo_video_url\":\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=6ps6nfIA738\",\"_video_demo_video_url\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_url\",\"video_demo_video_cover\":1625,\"_video_demo_video_cover\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_cover\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"Learn More\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.gojuego.com\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button_style\",\"video_demo_buttons\":1,\"_video_demo_buttons\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons\",\"video_demo\":\"\",\"_video_demo\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c94\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/testimonials {\"name\":\"acf\/testimonials\",\"data\":{\"testimonials_headline\":\"VOICES FROM THE EF+MATH COMMUNITY\",\"_testimonials_headline\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_headline\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball creates joyful, physically active learning environments where conceptual understanding of fractions and executive function skills are developed together. Compared to other movement-based math programs, Fraction Ball distinguishes itself through its intentional integration of rigorous mathematical learning with kinesthetic engagement. It excels at fostering student collaboration, agency, and conceptual thinking.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"Rennie Center for Education Research and Policy, EF+Math Competitive Product Analysis\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"\\u0022Being able to engage in Fraction Ball as a teacher made me feel seen and I appreciated that my kids were finally getting seen. Their voices, and my voice, were being elevated in research, and I was excited to learn that the communities that I serve (primarily Black and Brown students) were going to finally make it into research, and have a space in that community of researchers.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"Lourdes Acevedo-Farag, R\\u0026D project team member\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball ran so smoothly this year, based on our suggestions from last year... We felt super valued, and we were able to execute the lessons with fidelity, based on our suggestions. My opinion and my voice mattered.\u201d \",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"Julie Laguna-Caturegli, district partner\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes\":3,\"_testimonials_quotes\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes\",\"testimonials\":\"\",\"_testimonials\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cb6\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/featured-resources {\"name\":\"acf\/featured-resources\",\"data\":{\"featured_resources_headline\":\"Research Highlights\",\"_featured_resources_headline\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_headline\",\"featured_resources_resources\":[\"910\",\"992\",\"1009\",\"1079\"],\"_featured_resources_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_resources\",\"featured_resources\":\"\",\"_featured_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cc9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/staff-teaser-grid {\"name\":\"acf\/staff-teaser-grid\",\"data\":{\"staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"Project Team\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_headline\",\"staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":[\"653\",\"654\",\"655\",\"656\",\"657\",\"659\",\"658\",\"661\",\"660\",\"662\",\"663\",\"664\",\"665\",\"666\",\"667\",\"668\",\"669\",\"670\",\"671\",\"566\",\"672\",\"673\",\"562\",\"674\",\"675\",\"676\"],\"_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01ce9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-row {\"name\":\"acf\/text-row\",\"data\":{\"text_row_headline\":\"Acknowledgments \",\"_text_row_headline\":\"field_text_row_text_row_headline\",\"text_row_subheading\":\"\",\"_text_row_subheading\":\"field_text_row_text_row_subheading\",\"text_row_content\":\"Fraction Ball thrives because of the educators, students, administrators, and community partners who bring playful math learning to life. We are especially grateful to the Santa Ana Unified School District, El Rancho Unified School District, Lynwood Unified School District, and El Sol Academy\u2014the community where Fraction Ball first took shape. Their commitment to joyful, equitable math learning continues to guide and inspire the work.\\r\\n\\r\\nWe also gratefully acknowledge the leadership of the University of California, Irvine, in partnership with Juego!.\",\"_text_row_content\":\"field_text_row_text_row_content\",\"text_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_text_row_buttons\":\"field_text_row_text_row_buttons\",\"text_row_alignment\":\"left\",\"_text_row_alignment\":\"field_text_row_text_row_alignment\",\"text_row\":\"\",\"_text_row\":\"field_text_row_text_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d09\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/full-width-cta {\"name\":\"acf\/full-width-cta\",\"data\":{\"full_width_cta_headline\":\"Explore Our R\\u0026D Projects\",\"_full_width_cta_headline\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_headline\",\"full_width_cta_subheading\":\"The EF+Math portfolio of R\\u0026D projects developed innovative math learning products and advanced research on mathematics learning, executive function skills, and equitable learning experiences using inclusive R\\u0026D methods.\",\"_full_width_cta_subheading\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_subheading\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"View All R\\u0026D Projects\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/projects\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button_style\",\"full_width_cta_buttons\":1,\"_full_width_cta_buttons\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons\",\"full_width_cta\":\"\",\"_full_width_cta\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d26\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","description":"","objectType":"Project","project-type":[{"name":"Evaluation Study","slug":"evaluation-study","term_taxonomy_id":29,"taxonomy":"project-type"},{"name":"Product","slug":"product","term_taxonomy_id":28,"taxonomy":"project-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:03:13","attachment":{"ID":812,"src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg","img":"<img width=\"1280\" height=\"1091\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg 1280w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-300x256.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1024x873.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-768x655.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-320x273.jpeg 320w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-640x546.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed.jpeg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/>"},"meta":[]}]}}},{"ID":664,"title":"Lindsey E. Richland","altTitle":"Lindsey E. Richland","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/staff\/lindsey-richland\/","slug":"lindsey-richland","content":"","description":"","objectType":"Staff","staff-type":[{"name":"R&amp;D Project Teams","slug":"rd-project-teams","term_taxonomy_id":8,"taxonomy":"staff-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:38:06","attachment":{"ID":"32","src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png","img":"<img width=\"612\" height=\"612\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png 612w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-320x320.png 320w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px\" \/>"},"meta":{"staff_metadata":{"name":"Lindsey E. Richland","role":"Co-Principal Investigator","image":false,"social_links":{"linkedin":"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/lindsey-richland-89b86047\/","facebook":"","x_twitter":"","email":"l.richland@uci.edu"},"intro_text":"","bio":"","projects":[{"ID":519,"title":"Fraction Ball","altTitle":"Fraction Ball","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/project\/fraction-ball\/","slug":"fraction-ball","content":"<!-- wp:acf\/feature-row {\"name\":\"acf\/feature-row\",\"data\":{\"feature_row_headline\":\"Project Approach\",\"_feature_row_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_headline\",\"feature_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball\u2019s approach weaves together math, executive function skills, and equity to help students deepen their understanding of rational numbers through outdoor games and classroom activities. \",\"_feature_row_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_subheading\",\"feature_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_feature_row_buttons\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_buttons\",\"feature_row_card_type\":\"category_card\",\"_feature_row_card_type\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_card_type\",\"feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"Math.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"Mathematics\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"Playful embodied cognition approach to rational number understanding in grades 4\u20135, including fraction magnitude, equivalence, addition\/subtraction, and conversions.\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"Executive-Function.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"Executive Function Skills\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eOpportunities to adaptively monitor, plan, update, and shift thinking within reasoning about rational numbers in basketball games and strategies.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_2_icon\":\"Equity.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_2_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_2_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_2_headline\":\"Equitable Learning Experiences\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eImproving math-related emotions and teamwork through collaborative learning. Team roles provide opportunities to participate in a variety of ways, ensuring that all students, including multilingual learners, can be involved.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards\":3,\"_feature_row_cards\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards\",\"feature_row_padding\":\"both\",\"_feature_row_padding\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_padding\",\"feature_row\":\"\",\"_feature_row\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb0188b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/stat-row {\"name\":\"acf\/stat-row\",\"data\":{\"stat_row_headline\":\"Project Impact \",\"_stat_row_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_headline\",\"stat_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball has produced measurable impact in classrooms, reaching thousands of students and educators, while contributing research findings to advance math education.\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"4,400\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"students reached through Fraction Ball\u2019s work with the EF+Math program\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"23\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"school partners involved in research, development, co-design, and evaluation \\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"45+\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"publications and resources disseminated with Fraction Ball\u2019s learnings\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container\":3,\"_stat_row_stat_container\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container\",\"stat_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_stat_row_buttons\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_buttons\",\"stat_row_background_image\":1414,\"_stat_row_background_image\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_background_image\",\"stat_row\":\"\",\"_stat_row\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb018de\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-list {\"name\":\"acf\/text-list\",\"data\":{\"text_list_headline\":\"Key Insights and Innovations \",\"_text_list_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"Physical movement makes learning fractions collaborative and joyful\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/brilliantfuture.uci.edu\/fraction-ball-math-game-spreads-with-help-of-philanthropy\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003ereimagines the schoolyard\\u003c\/a\\u003e as a place for learning by overlaying fraction and decimal markings onto an existing basketball court that becomes the basis for Fraction Ball\u2019s court-based games. The traditional 3-point arc becomes 1 point, while smaller arcs represent fractional points. A number line tracks the score, allowing students to visualize magnitude and practice converting between fractions and decimals as they play. This embodied learning approach\u2014where physical movement connects directly to mathematical concepts\u2014decreases math anxiety while building rational number understanding, creating an environment for students where math can be collaborative and joyful.\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball leads to positive impacts on  fraction learning and contextualized EF skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"Findings from across two independent evaluation studies were consistent in showing that Fraction Ball had statistically significant, positive impacts on measures of fraction learning and contextualized EF skills. Notably, \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/osf.io\/najd6\/files\/mf7n9\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eevaluation study findings from 2024-25\\u003c\/a\\u003e showed that students who used Fraction Ball performed significantly better on an overall assessment of fraction learning and improved by more than 12-percentile-points on fractions-to-decimals conversion items, when compared to students who did not use Fraction Ball. Across both studies, students who used Fraction Ball also demonstrated stronger planning skills on a measure of EF skills in a math-based context.\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"Bottle Cap Bonanza: Student-designed game connects the court to the classroom\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"Students from an \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-the-femineers\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eall-female engineering afterschool club\\u003c\/a\\u003e in Southern California invented \\u003ci\\u003eBottle Cap Bonanza\\u003c\/i\\u003e\u2014a tabletop game that teaches fraction concepts through shuffleboard-style play using everyday materials like bottle caps and a poster board. Recognizing the value of this student-created innovation, the Fraction Ball team integrated it as a core component of their classroom activities, illustrating how co-design can elevate student voice and create more effective approaches to math learning.\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball empowers teachers to engage in student-centered, collaborative learning\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball creates space for interactive, collaborative problem solving where students lead with confidence. When teachers step back and allow students to own the learning on the court\u2014making decisions, collaborating with peers, and discovering mathematical connections\u2014their \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/www.k12dive.com\/news\/students-math-fractions-decimals-play-executive-function-California\/722657\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003einstructional approach\\u003c\/a\\u003e fundamentally shifts. Teachers see new levels of teamwork, sportsmanship, and joy that ripple beyond the court, nourishing academic growth and uniquely human skills. They report that this experience has changed how they think about delivering math instruction in their classroom, inspiring them to bring more student-centered, collaborative practices to other lessons and learning contexts.\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"Playful assessment captures both math and executive function skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"The \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly-video-game-demo\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eFraction Ball \\u0022Exactly\u201d video game\\u003c\/a\\u003e offers educators valuable insights into their students\u2019 learning through a \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003evalidated, playful assessment\\u003c\/a\\u003e of planning skills, assessed within the context of fractions. This stealth assessment gathers data useful to researchers and educators, while avoiding testing burden on students or invoking test anxiety.\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items\":5,\"_text_list_list_items\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items\",\"text_list\":\"\",\"_text_list\":\"field_text_list_text_list\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c4b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/video-demo {\"name\":\"acf\/video-demo\",\"data\":{\"video_demo_headline\":\"See Fraction Ball in Action\",\"_video_demo_headline\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_headline\",\"video_demo_subheading\":\"\",\"_video_demo_subheading\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_subheading\",\"video_demo_video_url\":\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=6ps6nfIA738\",\"_video_demo_video_url\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_url\",\"video_demo_video_cover\":1625,\"_video_demo_video_cover\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_cover\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"Learn More\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.gojuego.com\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button_style\",\"video_demo_buttons\":1,\"_video_demo_buttons\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons\",\"video_demo\":\"\",\"_video_demo\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c94\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/testimonials {\"name\":\"acf\/testimonials\",\"data\":{\"testimonials_headline\":\"VOICES FROM THE EF+MATH COMMUNITY\",\"_testimonials_headline\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_headline\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball creates joyful, physically active learning environments where conceptual understanding of fractions and executive function skills are developed together. Compared to other movement-based math programs, Fraction Ball distinguishes itself through its intentional integration of rigorous mathematical learning with kinesthetic engagement. It excels at fostering student collaboration, agency, and conceptual thinking.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"Rennie Center for Education Research and Policy, EF+Math Competitive Product Analysis\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"\\u0022Being able to engage in Fraction Ball as a teacher made me feel seen and I appreciated that my kids were finally getting seen. Their voices, and my voice, were being elevated in research, and I was excited to learn that the communities that I serve (primarily Black and Brown students) were going to finally make it into research, and have a space in that community of researchers.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"Lourdes Acevedo-Farag, R\\u0026D project team member\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball ran so smoothly this year, based on our suggestions from last year... We felt super valued, and we were able to execute the lessons with fidelity, based on our suggestions. My opinion and my voice mattered.\u201d \",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"Julie Laguna-Caturegli, district partner\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes\":3,\"_testimonials_quotes\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes\",\"testimonials\":\"\",\"_testimonials\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cb6\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/featured-resources {\"name\":\"acf\/featured-resources\",\"data\":{\"featured_resources_headline\":\"Research Highlights\",\"_featured_resources_headline\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_headline\",\"featured_resources_resources\":[\"910\",\"992\",\"1009\",\"1079\"],\"_featured_resources_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_resources\",\"featured_resources\":\"\",\"_featured_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cc9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/staff-teaser-grid {\"name\":\"acf\/staff-teaser-grid\",\"data\":{\"staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"Project Team\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_headline\",\"staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":[\"653\",\"654\",\"655\",\"656\",\"657\",\"659\",\"658\",\"661\",\"660\",\"662\",\"663\",\"664\",\"665\",\"666\",\"667\",\"668\",\"669\",\"670\",\"671\",\"566\",\"672\",\"673\",\"562\",\"674\",\"675\",\"676\"],\"_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01ce9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-row {\"name\":\"acf\/text-row\",\"data\":{\"text_row_headline\":\"Acknowledgments \",\"_text_row_headline\":\"field_text_row_text_row_headline\",\"text_row_subheading\":\"\",\"_text_row_subheading\":\"field_text_row_text_row_subheading\",\"text_row_content\":\"Fraction Ball thrives because of the educators, students, administrators, and community partners who bring playful math learning to life. We are especially grateful to the Santa Ana Unified School District, El Rancho Unified School District, Lynwood Unified School District, and El Sol Academy\u2014the community where Fraction Ball first took shape. Their commitment to joyful, equitable math learning continues to guide and inspire the work.\\r\\n\\r\\nWe also gratefully acknowledge the leadership of the University of California, Irvine, in partnership with Juego!.\",\"_text_row_content\":\"field_text_row_text_row_content\",\"text_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_text_row_buttons\":\"field_text_row_text_row_buttons\",\"text_row_alignment\":\"left\",\"_text_row_alignment\":\"field_text_row_text_row_alignment\",\"text_row\":\"\",\"_text_row\":\"field_text_row_text_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d09\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/full-width-cta {\"name\":\"acf\/full-width-cta\",\"data\":{\"full_width_cta_headline\":\"Explore Our R\\u0026D Projects\",\"_full_width_cta_headline\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_headline\",\"full_width_cta_subheading\":\"The EF+Math portfolio of R\\u0026D projects developed innovative math learning products and advanced research on mathematics learning, executive function skills, and equitable learning experiences using inclusive R\\u0026D methods.\",\"_full_width_cta_subheading\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_subheading\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"View All R\\u0026D Projects\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/projects\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button_style\",\"full_width_cta_buttons\":1,\"_full_width_cta_buttons\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons\",\"full_width_cta\":\"\",\"_full_width_cta\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d26\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","description":"","objectType":"Project","project-type":[{"name":"Evaluation Study","slug":"evaluation-study","term_taxonomy_id":29,"taxonomy":"project-type"},{"name":"Product","slug":"product","term_taxonomy_id":28,"taxonomy":"project-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:03:13","attachment":{"ID":812,"src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg","img":"<img width=\"1280\" height=\"1091\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg 1280w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-300x256.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1024x873.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-768x655.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-320x273.jpeg 320w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-640x546.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed.jpeg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/>"},"meta":[]}]}}},{"ID":665,"title":"Lizbeth Romero","altTitle":"Lizbeth Romero","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/staff\/lizbeth-marlene-romero\/","slug":"lizbeth-marlene-romero","content":"","description":"","objectType":"Staff","staff-type":[{"name":"R&amp;D Project Teams","slug":"rd-project-teams","term_taxonomy_id":8,"taxonomy":"staff-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:38:06","attachment":{"ID":"32","src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png","img":"<img width=\"612\" height=\"612\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png 612w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-320x320.png 320w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px\" \/>"},"meta":{"staff_metadata":{"name":"Lizbeth Romero","role":"Research Assistant","image":false,"social_links":{"linkedin":"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/lizbeth-m-romero\/","facebook":"","x_twitter":"","email":""},"intro_text":"Lizbeth Romero was a Research Assistant at the University of California, Irvine.<br \/>\r\n<br \/>\r\n","bio":"","projects":[{"ID":519,"title":"Fraction Ball","altTitle":"Fraction Ball","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/project\/fraction-ball\/","slug":"fraction-ball","content":"<!-- wp:acf\/feature-row {\"name\":\"acf\/feature-row\",\"data\":{\"feature_row_headline\":\"Project Approach\",\"_feature_row_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_headline\",\"feature_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball\u2019s approach weaves together math, executive function skills, and equity to help students deepen their understanding of rational numbers through outdoor games and classroom activities. \",\"_feature_row_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_subheading\",\"feature_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_feature_row_buttons\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_buttons\",\"feature_row_card_type\":\"category_card\",\"_feature_row_card_type\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_card_type\",\"feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"Math.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"Mathematics\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"Playful embodied cognition approach to rational number understanding in grades 4\u20135, including fraction magnitude, equivalence, addition\/subtraction, and conversions.\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"Executive-Function.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"Executive Function Skills\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eOpportunities to adaptively monitor, plan, update, and shift thinking within reasoning about rational numbers in basketball games and strategies.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_2_icon\":\"Equity.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_2_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_2_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_2_headline\":\"Equitable Learning Experiences\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eImproving math-related emotions and teamwork through collaborative learning. Team roles provide opportunities to participate in a variety of ways, ensuring that all students, including multilingual learners, can be involved.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards\":3,\"_feature_row_cards\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards\",\"feature_row_padding\":\"both\",\"_feature_row_padding\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_padding\",\"feature_row\":\"\",\"_feature_row\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb0188b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/stat-row {\"name\":\"acf\/stat-row\",\"data\":{\"stat_row_headline\":\"Project Impact \",\"_stat_row_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_headline\",\"stat_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball has produced measurable impact in classrooms, reaching thousands of students and educators, while contributing research findings to advance math education.\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"4,400\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"students reached through Fraction Ball\u2019s work with the EF+Math program\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"23\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"school partners involved in research, development, co-design, and evaluation \\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"45+\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"publications and resources disseminated with Fraction Ball\u2019s learnings\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container\":3,\"_stat_row_stat_container\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container\",\"stat_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_stat_row_buttons\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_buttons\",\"stat_row_background_image\":1414,\"_stat_row_background_image\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_background_image\",\"stat_row\":\"\",\"_stat_row\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb018de\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-list {\"name\":\"acf\/text-list\",\"data\":{\"text_list_headline\":\"Key Insights and Innovations \",\"_text_list_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"Physical movement makes learning fractions collaborative and joyful\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/brilliantfuture.uci.edu\/fraction-ball-math-game-spreads-with-help-of-philanthropy\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003ereimagines the schoolyard\\u003c\/a\\u003e as a place for learning by overlaying fraction and decimal markings onto an existing basketball court that becomes the basis for Fraction Ball\u2019s court-based games. The traditional 3-point arc becomes 1 point, while smaller arcs represent fractional points. A number line tracks the score, allowing students to visualize magnitude and practice converting between fractions and decimals as they play. This embodied learning approach\u2014where physical movement connects directly to mathematical concepts\u2014decreases math anxiety while building rational number understanding, creating an environment for students where math can be collaborative and joyful.\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball leads to positive impacts on  fraction learning and contextualized EF skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"Findings from across two independent evaluation studies were consistent in showing that Fraction Ball had statistically significant, positive impacts on measures of fraction learning and contextualized EF skills. Notably, \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/osf.io\/najd6\/files\/mf7n9\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eevaluation study findings from 2024-25\\u003c\/a\\u003e showed that students who used Fraction Ball performed significantly better on an overall assessment of fraction learning and improved by more than 12-percentile-points on fractions-to-decimals conversion items, when compared to students who did not use Fraction Ball. Across both studies, students who used Fraction Ball also demonstrated stronger planning skills on a measure of EF skills in a math-based context.\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"Bottle Cap Bonanza: Student-designed game connects the court to the classroom\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"Students from an \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-the-femineers\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eall-female engineering afterschool club\\u003c\/a\\u003e in Southern California invented \\u003ci\\u003eBottle Cap Bonanza\\u003c\/i\\u003e\u2014a tabletop game that teaches fraction concepts through shuffleboard-style play using everyday materials like bottle caps and a poster board. Recognizing the value of this student-created innovation, the Fraction Ball team integrated it as a core component of their classroom activities, illustrating how co-design can elevate student voice and create more effective approaches to math learning.\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball empowers teachers to engage in student-centered, collaborative learning\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball creates space for interactive, collaborative problem solving where students lead with confidence. When teachers step back and allow students to own the learning on the court\u2014making decisions, collaborating with peers, and discovering mathematical connections\u2014their \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/www.k12dive.com\/news\/students-math-fractions-decimals-play-executive-function-California\/722657\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003einstructional approach\\u003c\/a\\u003e fundamentally shifts. Teachers see new levels of teamwork, sportsmanship, and joy that ripple beyond the court, nourishing academic growth and uniquely human skills. They report that this experience has changed how they think about delivering math instruction in their classroom, inspiring them to bring more student-centered, collaborative practices to other lessons and learning contexts.\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"Playful assessment captures both math and executive function skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"The \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly-video-game-demo\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eFraction Ball \\u0022Exactly\u201d video game\\u003c\/a\\u003e offers educators valuable insights into their students\u2019 learning through a \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003evalidated, playful assessment\\u003c\/a\\u003e of planning skills, assessed within the context of fractions. This stealth assessment gathers data useful to researchers and educators, while avoiding testing burden on students or invoking test anxiety.\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items\":5,\"_text_list_list_items\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items\",\"text_list\":\"\",\"_text_list\":\"field_text_list_text_list\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c4b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/video-demo {\"name\":\"acf\/video-demo\",\"data\":{\"video_demo_headline\":\"See Fraction Ball in Action\",\"_video_demo_headline\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_headline\",\"video_demo_subheading\":\"\",\"_video_demo_subheading\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_subheading\",\"video_demo_video_url\":\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=6ps6nfIA738\",\"_video_demo_video_url\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_url\",\"video_demo_video_cover\":1625,\"_video_demo_video_cover\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_cover\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"Learn More\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.gojuego.com\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button_style\",\"video_demo_buttons\":1,\"_video_demo_buttons\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons\",\"video_demo\":\"\",\"_video_demo\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c94\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/testimonials {\"name\":\"acf\/testimonials\",\"data\":{\"testimonials_headline\":\"VOICES FROM THE EF+MATH COMMUNITY\",\"_testimonials_headline\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_headline\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball creates joyful, physically active learning environments where conceptual understanding of fractions and executive function skills are developed together. Compared to other movement-based math programs, Fraction Ball distinguishes itself through its intentional integration of rigorous mathematical learning with kinesthetic engagement. It excels at fostering student collaboration, agency, and conceptual thinking.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"Rennie Center for Education Research and Policy, EF+Math Competitive Product Analysis\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"\\u0022Being able to engage in Fraction Ball as a teacher made me feel seen and I appreciated that my kids were finally getting seen. Their voices, and my voice, were being elevated in research, and I was excited to learn that the communities that I serve (primarily Black and Brown students) were going to finally make it into research, and have a space in that community of researchers.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"Lourdes Acevedo-Farag, R\\u0026D project team member\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball ran so smoothly this year, based on our suggestions from last year... We felt super valued, and we were able to execute the lessons with fidelity, based on our suggestions. My opinion and my voice mattered.\u201d \",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"Julie Laguna-Caturegli, district partner\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes\":3,\"_testimonials_quotes\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes\",\"testimonials\":\"\",\"_testimonials\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cb6\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/featured-resources {\"name\":\"acf\/featured-resources\",\"data\":{\"featured_resources_headline\":\"Research Highlights\",\"_featured_resources_headline\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_headline\",\"featured_resources_resources\":[\"910\",\"992\",\"1009\",\"1079\"],\"_featured_resources_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_resources\",\"featured_resources\":\"\",\"_featured_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cc9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/staff-teaser-grid {\"name\":\"acf\/staff-teaser-grid\",\"data\":{\"staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"Project Team\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_headline\",\"staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":[\"653\",\"654\",\"655\",\"656\",\"657\",\"659\",\"658\",\"661\",\"660\",\"662\",\"663\",\"664\",\"665\",\"666\",\"667\",\"668\",\"669\",\"670\",\"671\",\"566\",\"672\",\"673\",\"562\",\"674\",\"675\",\"676\"],\"_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01ce9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-row {\"name\":\"acf\/text-row\",\"data\":{\"text_row_headline\":\"Acknowledgments \",\"_text_row_headline\":\"field_text_row_text_row_headline\",\"text_row_subheading\":\"\",\"_text_row_subheading\":\"field_text_row_text_row_subheading\",\"text_row_content\":\"Fraction Ball thrives because of the educators, students, administrators, and community partners who bring playful math learning to life. We are especially grateful to the Santa Ana Unified School District, El Rancho Unified School District, Lynwood Unified School District, and El Sol Academy\u2014the community where Fraction Ball first took shape. Their commitment to joyful, equitable math learning continues to guide and inspire the work.\\r\\n\\r\\nWe also gratefully acknowledge the leadership of the University of California, Irvine, in partnership with Juego!.\",\"_text_row_content\":\"field_text_row_text_row_content\",\"text_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_text_row_buttons\":\"field_text_row_text_row_buttons\",\"text_row_alignment\":\"left\",\"_text_row_alignment\":\"field_text_row_text_row_alignment\",\"text_row\":\"\",\"_text_row\":\"field_text_row_text_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d09\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/full-width-cta {\"name\":\"acf\/full-width-cta\",\"data\":{\"full_width_cta_headline\":\"Explore Our R\\u0026D Projects\",\"_full_width_cta_headline\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_headline\",\"full_width_cta_subheading\":\"The EF+Math portfolio of R\\u0026D projects developed innovative math learning products and advanced research on mathematics learning, executive function skills, and equitable learning experiences using inclusive R\\u0026D methods.\",\"_full_width_cta_subheading\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_subheading\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"View All R\\u0026D Projects\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/projects\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button_style\",\"full_width_cta_buttons\":1,\"_full_width_cta_buttons\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons\",\"full_width_cta\":\"\",\"_full_width_cta\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d26\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","description":"","objectType":"Project","project-type":[{"name":"Evaluation Study","slug":"evaluation-study","term_taxonomy_id":29,"taxonomy":"project-type"},{"name":"Product","slug":"product","term_taxonomy_id":28,"taxonomy":"project-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:03:13","attachment":{"ID":812,"src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg","img":"<img width=\"1280\" height=\"1091\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg 1280w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-300x256.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1024x873.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-768x655.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-320x273.jpeg 320w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-640x546.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed.jpeg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/>"},"meta":[]}]}}},{"ID":666,"title":"Lourdes M. Acevedo-Farag","altTitle":"Lourdes M. Acevedo-Farag","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/staff\/lourdes-m-acevedo-farag\/","slug":"lourdes-m-acevedo-farag","content":"","description":"","objectType":"Staff","staff-type":[{"name":"R&amp;D Project Teams","slug":"rd-project-teams","term_taxonomy_id":8,"taxonomy":"staff-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:38:06","attachment":{"ID":"32","src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png","img":"<img width=\"612\" height=\"612\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png 612w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-320x320.png 320w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px\" \/>"},"meta":{"staff_metadata":{"name":"Lourdes M. Acevedo-Farag","role":"Graduate Student Researcher","image":{"ID":845,"id":845,"title":"Screenshot","filename":"headshot2024-e1766008720964.jpeg","filesize":43283,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/headshot2024-e1766008720964.jpeg","link":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/staff\/lourdes-m-acevedo-farag\/screenshot-7\/","alt":"","author":"1","description":"","caption":"Screenshot","name":"screenshot-7","status":"inherit","uploaded_to":666,"date":"2025-12-17 16:34:58","modified":"2025-12-17 16:34:58","menu_order":0,"mime_type":"image\/jpeg","type":"image","subtype":"jpeg","icon":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/wp\/wp-includes\/images\/media\/default.png","width":650,"height":650,"sizes":{"thumbnail":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/headshot2024-e1766008720964-150x150.jpeg","thumbnail-width":150,"thumbnail-height":150,"medium":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/headshot2024-e1766008720964-300x300.jpeg","medium-width":300,"medium-height":300,"medium_large":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/headshot2024-e1766008720964.jpeg","medium_large-width":650,"medium_large-height":650,"large":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/headshot2024-e1766008720964.jpeg","large-width":650,"large-height":650,"1536x1536":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/headshot2024-e1766008720964.jpeg","1536x1536-width":650,"1536x1536-height":650,"2048x2048":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/headshot2024-e1766008720964.jpeg","2048x2048-width":650,"2048x2048-height":650,"w320":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/headshot2024-e1766008720964-320x320.jpeg","w320-width":320,"w320-height":320,"w640":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/headshot2024-e1766008720964-640x640.jpeg","w640-width":640,"w640-height":640,"w1280":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/headshot2024-e1766008720964.jpeg","w1280-width":650,"w1280-height":650,"w1920":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/headshot2024-e1766008720964.jpeg","w1920-width":650,"w1920-height":650,"w2560":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/headshot2024-e1766008720964.jpeg","w2560-width":650,"w2560-height":650,"gform-image-choice-sm":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/headshot2024-e1766008720964-300x300.jpeg","gform-image-choice-sm-width":300,"gform-image-choice-sm-height":300,"gform-image-choice-md":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/headshot2024-e1766008720964-400x400.jpeg","gform-image-choice-md-width":400,"gform-image-choice-md-height":400,"gform-image-choice-lg":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/headshot2024-e1766008720964-600x600.jpeg","gform-image-choice-lg-width":600,"gform-image-choice-lg-height":600}},"social_links":{"linkedin":"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/lourdes-acevedo-farag","facebook":"","x_twitter":"","email":"lfarag@uci.edu"},"intro_text":"Lourdes M. Acevedo-Farag is a Graduate Student Researcher at the University of California, Irvine.","bio":"<p>Lourdes M. Acevedo-Farag designs playful math experiences that bridge research and classroom practice. A former middle school teacher and now an education researcher at the University of California, Irvine, she studies how design features, such as structured tasks and scaffolding, work in tandem with teacher facilitation to support students\u2019 engagement and executive function in learning.<br \/>\nHer work is grounded in the realities of classroom teaching and guided by a commitment to bridging research and practice. By partnering with educators, Lourdes translates research on learning and cognition into designs that are developmentally sound, instructionally feasible, and authentically engaging.<\/p>\n","projects":[{"ID":519,"title":"Fraction Ball","altTitle":"Fraction Ball","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/project\/fraction-ball\/","slug":"fraction-ball","content":"<!-- wp:acf\/feature-row {\"name\":\"acf\/feature-row\",\"data\":{\"feature_row_headline\":\"Project Approach\",\"_feature_row_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_headline\",\"feature_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball\u2019s approach weaves together math, executive function skills, and equity to help students deepen their understanding of rational numbers through outdoor games and classroom activities. \",\"_feature_row_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_subheading\",\"feature_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_feature_row_buttons\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_buttons\",\"feature_row_card_type\":\"category_card\",\"_feature_row_card_type\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_card_type\",\"feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"Math.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"Mathematics\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"Playful embodied cognition approach to rational number understanding in grades 4\u20135, including fraction magnitude, equivalence, addition\/subtraction, and conversions.\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"Executive-Function.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"Executive Function Skills\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eOpportunities to adaptively monitor, plan, update, and shift thinking within reasoning about rational numbers in basketball games and strategies.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_2_icon\":\"Equity.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_2_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_2_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_2_headline\":\"Equitable Learning Experiences\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eImproving math-related emotions and teamwork through collaborative learning. Team roles provide opportunities to participate in a variety of ways, ensuring that all students, including multilingual learners, can be involved.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards\":3,\"_feature_row_cards\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards\",\"feature_row_padding\":\"both\",\"_feature_row_padding\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_padding\",\"feature_row\":\"\",\"_feature_row\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb0188b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/stat-row {\"name\":\"acf\/stat-row\",\"data\":{\"stat_row_headline\":\"Project Impact \",\"_stat_row_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_headline\",\"stat_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball has produced measurable impact in classrooms, reaching thousands of students and educators, while contributing research findings to advance math education.\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"4,400\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"students reached through Fraction Ball\u2019s work with the EF+Math program\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"23\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"school partners involved in research, development, co-design, and evaluation \\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"45+\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"publications and resources disseminated with Fraction Ball\u2019s learnings\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container\":3,\"_stat_row_stat_container\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container\",\"stat_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_stat_row_buttons\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_buttons\",\"stat_row_background_image\":1414,\"_stat_row_background_image\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_background_image\",\"stat_row\":\"\",\"_stat_row\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb018de\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-list {\"name\":\"acf\/text-list\",\"data\":{\"text_list_headline\":\"Key Insights and Innovations \",\"_text_list_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"Physical movement makes learning fractions collaborative and joyful\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/brilliantfuture.uci.edu\/fraction-ball-math-game-spreads-with-help-of-philanthropy\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003ereimagines the schoolyard\\u003c\/a\\u003e as a place for learning by overlaying fraction and decimal markings onto an existing basketball court that becomes the basis for Fraction Ball\u2019s court-based games. The traditional 3-point arc becomes 1 point, while smaller arcs represent fractional points. A number line tracks the score, allowing students to visualize magnitude and practice converting between fractions and decimals as they play. This embodied learning approach\u2014where physical movement connects directly to mathematical concepts\u2014decreases math anxiety while building rational number understanding, creating an environment for students where math can be collaborative and joyful.\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball leads to positive impacts on  fraction learning and contextualized EF skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"Findings from across two independent evaluation studies were consistent in showing that Fraction Ball had statistically significant, positive impacts on measures of fraction learning and contextualized EF skills. Notably, \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/osf.io\/najd6\/files\/mf7n9\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eevaluation study findings from 2024-25\\u003c\/a\\u003e showed that students who used Fraction Ball performed significantly better on an overall assessment of fraction learning and improved by more than 12-percentile-points on fractions-to-decimals conversion items, when compared to students who did not use Fraction Ball. Across both studies, students who used Fraction Ball also demonstrated stronger planning skills on a measure of EF skills in a math-based context.\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"Bottle Cap Bonanza: Student-designed game connects the court to the classroom\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"Students from an \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-the-femineers\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eall-female engineering afterschool club\\u003c\/a\\u003e in Southern California invented \\u003ci\\u003eBottle Cap Bonanza\\u003c\/i\\u003e\u2014a tabletop game that teaches fraction concepts through shuffleboard-style play using everyday materials like bottle caps and a poster board. Recognizing the value of this student-created innovation, the Fraction Ball team integrated it as a core component of their classroom activities, illustrating how co-design can elevate student voice and create more effective approaches to math learning.\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball empowers teachers to engage in student-centered, collaborative learning\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball creates space for interactive, collaborative problem solving where students lead with confidence. When teachers step back and allow students to own the learning on the court\u2014making decisions, collaborating with peers, and discovering mathematical connections\u2014their \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/www.k12dive.com\/news\/students-math-fractions-decimals-play-executive-function-California\/722657\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003einstructional approach\\u003c\/a\\u003e fundamentally shifts. Teachers see new levels of teamwork, sportsmanship, and joy that ripple beyond the court, nourishing academic growth and uniquely human skills. They report that this experience has changed how they think about delivering math instruction in their classroom, inspiring them to bring more student-centered, collaborative practices to other lessons and learning contexts.\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"Playful assessment captures both math and executive function skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"The \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly-video-game-demo\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eFraction Ball \\u0022Exactly\u201d video game\\u003c\/a\\u003e offers educators valuable insights into their students\u2019 learning through a \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003evalidated, playful assessment\\u003c\/a\\u003e of planning skills, assessed within the context of fractions. This stealth assessment gathers data useful to researchers and educators, while avoiding testing burden on students or invoking test anxiety.\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items\":5,\"_text_list_list_items\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items\",\"text_list\":\"\",\"_text_list\":\"field_text_list_text_list\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c4b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/video-demo {\"name\":\"acf\/video-demo\",\"data\":{\"video_demo_headline\":\"See Fraction Ball in Action\",\"_video_demo_headline\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_headline\",\"video_demo_subheading\":\"\",\"_video_demo_subheading\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_subheading\",\"video_demo_video_url\":\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=6ps6nfIA738\",\"_video_demo_video_url\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_url\",\"video_demo_video_cover\":1625,\"_video_demo_video_cover\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_cover\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"Learn More\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.gojuego.com\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button_style\",\"video_demo_buttons\":1,\"_video_demo_buttons\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons\",\"video_demo\":\"\",\"_video_demo\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c94\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/testimonials {\"name\":\"acf\/testimonials\",\"data\":{\"testimonials_headline\":\"VOICES FROM THE EF+MATH COMMUNITY\",\"_testimonials_headline\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_headline\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball creates joyful, physically active learning environments where conceptual understanding of fractions and executive function skills are developed together. Compared to other movement-based math programs, Fraction Ball distinguishes itself through its intentional integration of rigorous mathematical learning with kinesthetic engagement. It excels at fostering student collaboration, agency, and conceptual thinking.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"Rennie Center for Education Research and Policy, EF+Math Competitive Product Analysis\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"\\u0022Being able to engage in Fraction Ball as a teacher made me feel seen and I appreciated that my kids were finally getting seen. Their voices, and my voice, were being elevated in research, and I was excited to learn that the communities that I serve (primarily Black and Brown students) were going to finally make it into research, and have a space in that community of researchers.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"Lourdes Acevedo-Farag, R\\u0026D project team member\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball ran so smoothly this year, based on our suggestions from last year... We felt super valued, and we were able to execute the lessons with fidelity, based on our suggestions. My opinion and my voice mattered.\u201d \",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"Julie Laguna-Caturegli, district partner\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes\":3,\"_testimonials_quotes\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes\",\"testimonials\":\"\",\"_testimonials\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cb6\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/featured-resources {\"name\":\"acf\/featured-resources\",\"data\":{\"featured_resources_headline\":\"Research Highlights\",\"_featured_resources_headline\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_headline\",\"featured_resources_resources\":[\"910\",\"992\",\"1009\",\"1079\"],\"_featured_resources_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_resources\",\"featured_resources\":\"\",\"_featured_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cc9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/staff-teaser-grid {\"name\":\"acf\/staff-teaser-grid\",\"data\":{\"staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"Project Team\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_headline\",\"staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":[\"653\",\"654\",\"655\",\"656\",\"657\",\"659\",\"658\",\"661\",\"660\",\"662\",\"663\",\"664\",\"665\",\"666\",\"667\",\"668\",\"669\",\"670\",\"671\",\"566\",\"672\",\"673\",\"562\",\"674\",\"675\",\"676\"],\"_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01ce9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-row {\"name\":\"acf\/text-row\",\"data\":{\"text_row_headline\":\"Acknowledgments \",\"_text_row_headline\":\"field_text_row_text_row_headline\",\"text_row_subheading\":\"\",\"_text_row_subheading\":\"field_text_row_text_row_subheading\",\"text_row_content\":\"Fraction Ball thrives because of the educators, students, administrators, and community partners who bring playful math learning to life. We are especially grateful to the Santa Ana Unified School District, El Rancho Unified School District, Lynwood Unified School District, and El Sol Academy\u2014the community where Fraction Ball first took shape. Their commitment to joyful, equitable math learning continues to guide and inspire the work.\\r\\n\\r\\nWe also gratefully acknowledge the leadership of the University of California, Irvine, in partnership with Juego!.\",\"_text_row_content\":\"field_text_row_text_row_content\",\"text_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_text_row_buttons\":\"field_text_row_text_row_buttons\",\"text_row_alignment\":\"left\",\"_text_row_alignment\":\"field_text_row_text_row_alignment\",\"text_row\":\"\",\"_text_row\":\"field_text_row_text_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d09\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/full-width-cta {\"name\":\"acf\/full-width-cta\",\"data\":{\"full_width_cta_headline\":\"Explore Our R\\u0026D Projects\",\"_full_width_cta_headline\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_headline\",\"full_width_cta_subheading\":\"The EF+Math portfolio of R\\u0026D projects developed innovative math learning products and advanced research on mathematics learning, executive function skills, and equitable learning experiences using inclusive R\\u0026D methods.\",\"_full_width_cta_subheading\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_subheading\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"View All R\\u0026D Projects\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/projects\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button_style\",\"full_width_cta_buttons\":1,\"_full_width_cta_buttons\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons\",\"full_width_cta\":\"\",\"_full_width_cta\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d26\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","description":"","objectType":"Project","project-type":[{"name":"Evaluation Study","slug":"evaluation-study","term_taxonomy_id":29,"taxonomy":"project-type"},{"name":"Product","slug":"product","term_taxonomy_id":28,"taxonomy":"project-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:03:13","attachment":{"ID":812,"src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg","img":"<img width=\"1280\" height=\"1091\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg 1280w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-300x256.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1024x873.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-768x655.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-320x273.jpeg 320w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-640x546.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed.jpeg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/>"},"meta":[]}]}}},{"ID":667,"title":"LuEttaMae Lawrence","altTitle":"LuEttaMae Lawrence","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/staff\/luettamae-lawrence\/","slug":"luettamae-lawrence","content":"","description":"","objectType":"Staff","staff-type":[{"name":"R&amp;D Project Teams","slug":"rd-project-teams","term_taxonomy_id":8,"taxonomy":"staff-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:38:06","attachment":{"ID":"32","src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png","img":"<img width=\"612\" height=\"612\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png 612w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-320x320.png 320w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px\" \/>"},"meta":{"staff_metadata":{"name":"LuEttaMae Lawrence","role":"Postdoctoral Fellow","image":false,"social_links":{"linkedin":"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/luettamae-lawrence-19012955\/","facebook":"","x_twitter":"","email":"lu.lawrence@usu.edu"},"intro_text":"LuEttaMae Lawrence is an Assistant Professor at Utah State University.","bio":"","projects":[{"ID":519,"title":"Fraction Ball","altTitle":"Fraction Ball","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/project\/fraction-ball\/","slug":"fraction-ball","content":"<!-- wp:acf\/feature-row {\"name\":\"acf\/feature-row\",\"data\":{\"feature_row_headline\":\"Project Approach\",\"_feature_row_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_headline\",\"feature_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball\u2019s approach weaves together math, executive function skills, and equity to help students deepen their understanding of rational numbers through outdoor games and classroom activities. \",\"_feature_row_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_subheading\",\"feature_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_feature_row_buttons\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_buttons\",\"feature_row_card_type\":\"category_card\",\"_feature_row_card_type\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_card_type\",\"feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"Math.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"Mathematics\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"Playful embodied cognition approach to rational number understanding in grades 4\u20135, including fraction magnitude, equivalence, addition\/subtraction, and conversions.\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"Executive-Function.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"Executive Function Skills\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eOpportunities to adaptively monitor, plan, update, and shift thinking within reasoning about rational numbers in basketball games and 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Team roles provide opportunities to participate in a variety of ways, ensuring that all students, including multilingual learners, can be involved.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards\":3,\"_feature_row_cards\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards\",\"feature_row_padding\":\"both\",\"_feature_row_padding\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_padding\",\"feature_row\":\"\",\"_feature_row\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb0188b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/stat-row {\"name\":\"acf\/stat-row\",\"data\":{\"stat_row_headline\":\"Project Impact \",\"_stat_row_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_headline\",\"stat_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball has produced measurable impact in classrooms, reaching thousands of students and educators, while contributing research findings to advance math education.\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"4,400\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"students reached through Fraction Ball\u2019s work with the EF+Math program\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"23\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"school partners involved in research, development, co-design, and evaluation \\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"45+\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"publications and resources disseminated with Fraction Ball\u2019s learnings\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container\":3,\"_stat_row_stat_container\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container\",\"stat_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_stat_row_buttons\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_buttons\",\"stat_row_background_image\":1414,\"_stat_row_background_image\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_background_image\",\"stat_row\":\"\",\"_stat_row\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb018de\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-list {\"name\":\"acf\/text-list\",\"data\":{\"text_list_headline\":\"Key Insights and Innovations \",\"_text_list_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"Physical movement makes learning fractions collaborative and joyful\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/brilliantfuture.uci.edu\/fraction-ball-math-game-spreads-with-help-of-philanthropy\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003ereimagines the schoolyard\\u003c\/a\\u003e as a place for learning by overlaying fraction and decimal markings onto an existing basketball court that becomes the basis for Fraction Ball\u2019s court-based games. The traditional 3-point arc becomes 1 point, while smaller arcs represent fractional points. A number line tracks the score, allowing students to visualize magnitude and practice converting between fractions and decimals as they play. This embodied learning approach\u2014where physical movement connects directly to mathematical concepts\u2014decreases math anxiety while building rational number understanding, creating an environment for students where math can be collaborative and joyful.\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball leads to positive impacts on  fraction learning and contextualized EF skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"Findings from across two independent evaluation studies were consistent in showing that Fraction Ball had statistically significant, positive impacts on measures of fraction learning and contextualized EF skills. Notably, \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/osf.io\/najd6\/files\/mf7n9\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eevaluation study findings from 2024-25\\u003c\/a\\u003e showed that students who used Fraction Ball performed significantly better on an overall assessment of fraction learning and improved by more than 12-percentile-points on fractions-to-decimals conversion items, when compared to students who did not use Fraction Ball. Across both studies, students who used Fraction Ball also demonstrated stronger planning skills on a measure of EF skills in a math-based context.\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"Bottle Cap Bonanza: Student-designed game connects the court to the classroom\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"Students from an \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-the-femineers\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eall-female engineering afterschool club\\u003c\/a\\u003e in Southern California invented \\u003ci\\u003eBottle Cap Bonanza\\u003c\/i\\u003e\u2014a tabletop game that teaches fraction concepts through shuffleboard-style play using everyday materials like bottle caps and a poster board. Recognizing the value of this student-created innovation, the Fraction Ball team integrated it as a core component of their classroom activities, illustrating how co-design can elevate student voice and create more effective approaches to math learning.\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball empowers teachers to engage in student-centered, collaborative learning\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball creates space for interactive, collaborative problem solving where students lead with confidence. When teachers step back and allow students to own the learning on the court\u2014making decisions, collaborating with peers, and discovering mathematical connections\u2014their \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/www.k12dive.com\/news\/students-math-fractions-decimals-play-executive-function-California\/722657\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003einstructional approach\\u003c\/a\\u003e fundamentally shifts. Teachers see new levels of teamwork, sportsmanship, and joy that ripple beyond the court, nourishing academic growth and uniquely human skills. They report that this experience has changed how they think about delivering math instruction in their classroom, inspiring them to bring more student-centered, collaborative practices to other lessons and learning contexts.\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"Playful assessment captures both math and executive function skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"The \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly-video-game-demo\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eFraction Ball \\u0022Exactly\u201d video game\\u003c\/a\\u003e offers educators valuable insights into their students\u2019 learning through a \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003evalidated, playful assessment\\u003c\/a\\u003e of planning skills, assessed within the context of fractions. This stealth assessment gathers data useful to researchers and educators, while avoiding testing burden on students or invoking test anxiety.\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items\":5,\"_text_list_list_items\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items\",\"text_list\":\"\",\"_text_list\":\"field_text_list_text_list\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c4b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/video-demo {\"name\":\"acf\/video-demo\",\"data\":{\"video_demo_headline\":\"See Fraction Ball in Action\",\"_video_demo_headline\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_headline\",\"video_demo_subheading\":\"\",\"_video_demo_subheading\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_subheading\",\"video_demo_video_url\":\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=6ps6nfIA738\",\"_video_demo_video_url\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_url\",\"video_demo_video_cover\":1625,\"_video_demo_video_cover\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_cover\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"Learn More\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.gojuego.com\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button_style\",\"video_demo_buttons\":1,\"_video_demo_buttons\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons\",\"video_demo\":\"\",\"_video_demo\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c94\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/testimonials {\"name\":\"acf\/testimonials\",\"data\":{\"testimonials_headline\":\"VOICES FROM THE EF+MATH COMMUNITY\",\"_testimonials_headline\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_headline\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball creates joyful, physically active learning environments where conceptual understanding of fractions and executive function skills are developed together. Compared to other movement-based math programs, Fraction Ball distinguishes itself through its intentional integration of rigorous mathematical learning with kinesthetic engagement. It excels at fostering student collaboration, agency, and conceptual thinking.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"Rennie Center for Education Research and Policy, EF+Math Competitive Product Analysis\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"\\u0022Being able to engage in Fraction Ball as a teacher made me feel seen and I appreciated that my kids were finally getting seen. Their voices, and my voice, were being elevated in research, and I was excited to learn that the communities that I serve (primarily Black and Brown students) were going to finally make it into research, and have a space in that community of researchers.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"Lourdes Acevedo-Farag, R\\u0026D project team member\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball ran so smoothly this year, based on our suggestions from last year... We felt super valued, and we were able to execute the lessons with fidelity, based on our suggestions. My opinion and my voice mattered.\u201d \",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"Julie Laguna-Caturegli, district partner\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes\":3,\"_testimonials_quotes\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes\",\"testimonials\":\"\",\"_testimonials\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cb6\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/featured-resources {\"name\":\"acf\/featured-resources\",\"data\":{\"featured_resources_headline\":\"Research Highlights\",\"_featured_resources_headline\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_headline\",\"featured_resources_resources\":[\"910\",\"992\",\"1009\",\"1079\"],\"_featured_resources_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_resources\",\"featured_resources\":\"\",\"_featured_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cc9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/staff-teaser-grid {\"name\":\"acf\/staff-teaser-grid\",\"data\":{\"staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"Project Team\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_headline\",\"staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":[\"653\",\"654\",\"655\",\"656\",\"657\",\"659\",\"658\",\"661\",\"660\",\"662\",\"663\",\"664\",\"665\",\"666\",\"667\",\"668\",\"669\",\"670\",\"671\",\"566\",\"672\",\"673\",\"562\",\"674\",\"675\",\"676\"],\"_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01ce9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-row {\"name\":\"acf\/text-row\",\"data\":{\"text_row_headline\":\"Acknowledgments \",\"_text_row_headline\":\"field_text_row_text_row_headline\",\"text_row_subheading\":\"\",\"_text_row_subheading\":\"field_text_row_text_row_subheading\",\"text_row_content\":\"Fraction Ball thrives because of the educators, students, administrators, and community partners who bring playful math learning to life. We are especially grateful to the Santa Ana Unified School District, El Rancho Unified School District, Lynwood Unified School District, and El Sol Academy\u2014the community where Fraction Ball first took shape. Their commitment to joyful, equitable math learning continues to guide and inspire the work.\\r\\n\\r\\nWe also gratefully acknowledge the leadership of the University of California, Irvine, in partnership with Juego!.\",\"_text_row_content\":\"field_text_row_text_row_content\",\"text_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_text_row_buttons\":\"field_text_row_text_row_buttons\",\"text_row_alignment\":\"left\",\"_text_row_alignment\":\"field_text_row_text_row_alignment\",\"text_row\":\"\",\"_text_row\":\"field_text_row_text_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d09\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/full-width-cta {\"name\":\"acf\/full-width-cta\",\"data\":{\"full_width_cta_headline\":\"Explore Our R\\u0026D Projects\",\"_full_width_cta_headline\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_headline\",\"full_width_cta_subheading\":\"The EF+Math portfolio of R\\u0026D projects developed innovative math learning products and advanced research on mathematics learning, executive function skills, and equitable learning experiences using inclusive R\\u0026D methods.\",\"_full_width_cta_subheading\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_subheading\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"View All R\\u0026D Projects\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/projects\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button_style\",\"full_width_cta_buttons\":1,\"_full_width_cta_buttons\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons\",\"full_width_cta\":\"\",\"_full_width_cta\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d26\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","description":"","objectType":"Project","project-type":[{"name":"Evaluation Study","slug":"evaluation-study","term_taxonomy_id":29,"taxonomy":"project-type"},{"name":"Product","slug":"product","term_taxonomy_id":28,"taxonomy":"project-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:03:13","attachment":{"ID":812,"src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg","img":"<img width=\"1280\" height=\"1091\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg 1280w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-300x256.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1024x873.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-768x655.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-320x273.jpeg 320w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-640x546.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed.jpeg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/>"},"meta":[]}]}}},{"ID":668,"title":"Maria Schwartz","altTitle":"Maria Schwartz","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/staff\/maria-schwartz\/","slug":"maria-schwartz","content":"","description":"","objectType":"Staff","staff-type":[{"name":"R&amp;D Project Teams","slug":"rd-project-teams","term_taxonomy_id":8,"taxonomy":"staff-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:38:06","attachment":{"ID":"32","src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png","img":"<img width=\"612\" height=\"612\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png 612w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-320x320.png 320w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px\" \/>"},"meta":{"staff_metadata":{"name":"Maria Schwartz","role":"District Success Manager","image":false,"social_links":{"linkedin":"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/maria-schwartz-ed-d-01008b30a\/","facebook":"","x_twitter":"","email":""},"intro_text":"Maria Schwartz was the District Success Manager\u00a0at Juego!.","bio":"","projects":[{"ID":519,"title":"Fraction Ball","altTitle":"Fraction Ball","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/project\/fraction-ball\/","slug":"fraction-ball","content":"<!-- wp:acf\/feature-row {\"name\":\"acf\/feature-row\",\"data\":{\"feature_row_headline\":\"Project Approach\",\"_feature_row_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_headline\",\"feature_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball\u2019s approach weaves together math, executive function skills, and equity to help students deepen their understanding of rational numbers through outdoor games and classroom activities. \",\"_feature_row_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_subheading\",\"feature_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_feature_row_buttons\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_buttons\",\"feature_row_card_type\":\"category_card\",\"_feature_row_card_type\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_card_type\",\"feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"Math.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"Mathematics\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"Playful embodied cognition approach to rational number understanding in grades 4\u20135, including fraction magnitude, equivalence, addition\/subtraction, and conversions.\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"Executive-Function.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"Executive Function Skills\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eOpportunities to adaptively monitor, plan, update, and shift thinking within reasoning about rational numbers in basketball games and strategies.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_2_icon\":\"Equity.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_2_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_2_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_2_headline\":\"Equitable Learning Experiences\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eImproving math-related emotions and teamwork through collaborative learning. Team roles provide opportunities to participate in a variety of ways, ensuring that all students, including multilingual learners, can be involved.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards\":3,\"_feature_row_cards\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards\",\"feature_row_padding\":\"both\",\"_feature_row_padding\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_padding\",\"feature_row\":\"\",\"_feature_row\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb0188b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/stat-row {\"name\":\"acf\/stat-row\",\"data\":{\"stat_row_headline\":\"Project Impact \",\"_stat_row_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_headline\",\"stat_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball has produced measurable impact in classrooms, reaching thousands of students and educators, while contributing research findings to advance math education.\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"4,400\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"students reached through Fraction Ball\u2019s work with the EF+Math program\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"23\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"school partners involved in research, development, co-design, and evaluation \\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"45+\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"publications and resources disseminated with Fraction Ball\u2019s learnings\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container\":3,\"_stat_row_stat_container\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container\",\"stat_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_stat_row_buttons\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_buttons\",\"stat_row_background_image\":1414,\"_stat_row_background_image\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_background_image\",\"stat_row\":\"\",\"_stat_row\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb018de\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-list {\"name\":\"acf\/text-list\",\"data\":{\"text_list_headline\":\"Key Insights and Innovations \",\"_text_list_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"Physical movement makes learning fractions collaborative and joyful\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/brilliantfuture.uci.edu\/fraction-ball-math-game-spreads-with-help-of-philanthropy\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003ereimagines the schoolyard\\u003c\/a\\u003e as a place for learning by overlaying fraction and decimal markings onto an existing basketball court that becomes the basis for Fraction Ball\u2019s court-based games. The traditional 3-point arc becomes 1 point, while smaller arcs represent fractional points. A number line tracks the score, allowing students to visualize magnitude and practice converting between fractions and decimals as they play. This embodied learning approach\u2014where physical movement connects directly to mathematical concepts\u2014decreases math anxiety while building rational number understanding, creating an environment for students where math can be collaborative and joyful.\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball leads to positive impacts on  fraction learning and contextualized EF skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"Findings from across two independent evaluation studies were consistent in showing that Fraction Ball had statistically significant, positive impacts on measures of fraction learning and contextualized EF skills. Notably, \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/osf.io\/najd6\/files\/mf7n9\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eevaluation study findings from 2024-25\\u003c\/a\\u003e showed that students who used Fraction Ball performed significantly better on an overall assessment of fraction learning and improved by more than 12-percentile-points on fractions-to-decimals conversion items, when compared to students who did not use Fraction Ball. Across both studies, students who used Fraction Ball also demonstrated stronger planning skills on a measure of EF skills in a math-based context.\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"Bottle Cap Bonanza: Student-designed game connects the court to the classroom\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"Students from an \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-the-femineers\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eall-female engineering afterschool club\\u003c\/a\\u003e in Southern California invented \\u003ci\\u003eBottle Cap Bonanza\\u003c\/i\\u003e\u2014a tabletop game that teaches fraction concepts through shuffleboard-style play using everyday materials like bottle caps and a poster board. Recognizing the value of this student-created innovation, the Fraction Ball team integrated it as a core component of their classroom activities, illustrating how co-design can elevate student voice and create more effective approaches to math learning.\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball empowers teachers to engage in student-centered, collaborative learning\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball creates space for interactive, collaborative problem solving where students lead with confidence. When teachers step back and allow students to own the learning on the court\u2014making decisions, collaborating with peers, and discovering mathematical connections\u2014their \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/www.k12dive.com\/news\/students-math-fractions-decimals-play-executive-function-California\/722657\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003einstructional approach\\u003c\/a\\u003e fundamentally shifts. Teachers see new levels of teamwork, sportsmanship, and joy that ripple beyond the court, nourishing academic growth and uniquely human skills. They report that this experience has changed how they think about delivering math instruction in their classroom, inspiring them to bring more student-centered, collaborative practices to other lessons and learning contexts.\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"Playful assessment captures both math and executive function skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"The \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly-video-game-demo\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eFraction Ball \\u0022Exactly\u201d video game\\u003c\/a\\u003e offers educators valuable insights into their students\u2019 learning through a \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003evalidated, playful assessment\\u003c\/a\\u003e of planning skills, assessed within the context of fractions. This stealth assessment gathers data useful to researchers and educators, while avoiding testing burden on students or invoking test anxiety.\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items\":5,\"_text_list_list_items\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items\",\"text_list\":\"\",\"_text_list\":\"field_text_list_text_list\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c4b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/video-demo {\"name\":\"acf\/video-demo\",\"data\":{\"video_demo_headline\":\"See Fraction Ball in Action\",\"_video_demo_headline\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_headline\",\"video_demo_subheading\":\"\",\"_video_demo_subheading\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_subheading\",\"video_demo_video_url\":\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=6ps6nfIA738\",\"_video_demo_video_url\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_url\",\"video_demo_video_cover\":1625,\"_video_demo_video_cover\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_cover\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"Learn More\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.gojuego.com\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button_style\",\"video_demo_buttons\":1,\"_video_demo_buttons\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons\",\"video_demo\":\"\",\"_video_demo\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c94\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/testimonials {\"name\":\"acf\/testimonials\",\"data\":{\"testimonials_headline\":\"VOICES FROM THE EF+MATH COMMUNITY\",\"_testimonials_headline\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_headline\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball creates joyful, physically active learning environments where conceptual understanding of fractions and executive function skills are developed together. Compared to other movement-based math programs, Fraction Ball distinguishes itself through its intentional integration of rigorous mathematical learning with kinesthetic engagement. It excels at fostering student collaboration, agency, and conceptual thinking.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"Rennie Center for Education Research and Policy, EF+Math Competitive Product Analysis\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"\\u0022Being able to engage in Fraction Ball as a teacher made me feel seen and I appreciated that my kids were finally getting seen. Their voices, and my voice, were being elevated in research, and I was excited to learn that the communities that I serve (primarily Black and Brown students) were going to finally make it into research, and have a space in that community of researchers.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"Lourdes Acevedo-Farag, R\\u0026D project team member\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball ran so smoothly this year, based on our suggestions from last year... We felt super valued, and we were able to execute the lessons with fidelity, based on our suggestions. My opinion and my voice mattered.\u201d \",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"Julie Laguna-Caturegli, district partner\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes\":3,\"_testimonials_quotes\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes\",\"testimonials\":\"\",\"_testimonials\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cb6\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/featured-resources {\"name\":\"acf\/featured-resources\",\"data\":{\"featured_resources_headline\":\"Research Highlights\",\"_featured_resources_headline\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_headline\",\"featured_resources_resources\":[\"910\",\"992\",\"1009\",\"1079\"],\"_featured_resources_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_resources\",\"featured_resources\":\"\",\"_featured_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cc9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/staff-teaser-grid {\"name\":\"acf\/staff-teaser-grid\",\"data\":{\"staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"Project Team\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_headline\",\"staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":[\"653\",\"654\",\"655\",\"656\",\"657\",\"659\",\"658\",\"661\",\"660\",\"662\",\"663\",\"664\",\"665\",\"666\",\"667\",\"668\",\"669\",\"670\",\"671\",\"566\",\"672\",\"673\",\"562\",\"674\",\"675\",\"676\"],\"_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01ce9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-row {\"name\":\"acf\/text-row\",\"data\":{\"text_row_headline\":\"Acknowledgments \",\"_text_row_headline\":\"field_text_row_text_row_headline\",\"text_row_subheading\":\"\",\"_text_row_subheading\":\"field_text_row_text_row_subheading\",\"text_row_content\":\"Fraction Ball thrives because of the educators, students, administrators, and community partners who bring playful math learning to life. We are especially grateful to the Santa Ana Unified School District, El Rancho Unified School District, Lynwood Unified School District, and El Sol Academy\u2014the community where Fraction Ball first took shape. Their commitment to joyful, equitable math learning continues to guide and inspire the work.\\r\\n\\r\\nWe also gratefully acknowledge the leadership of the University of California, Irvine, in partnership with Juego!.\",\"_text_row_content\":\"field_text_row_text_row_content\",\"text_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_text_row_buttons\":\"field_text_row_text_row_buttons\",\"text_row_alignment\":\"left\",\"_text_row_alignment\":\"field_text_row_text_row_alignment\",\"text_row\":\"\",\"_text_row\":\"field_text_row_text_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d09\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/full-width-cta {\"name\":\"acf\/full-width-cta\",\"data\":{\"full_width_cta_headline\":\"Explore Our R\\u0026D Projects\",\"_full_width_cta_headline\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_headline\",\"full_width_cta_subheading\":\"The EF+Math portfolio of R\\u0026D projects developed innovative math learning products and advanced research on mathematics learning, executive function skills, and equitable learning experiences using inclusive R\\u0026D methods.\",\"_full_width_cta_subheading\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_subheading\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"View All R\\u0026D Projects\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/projects\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button_style\",\"full_width_cta_buttons\":1,\"_full_width_cta_buttons\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons\",\"full_width_cta\":\"\",\"_full_width_cta\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d26\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","description":"","objectType":"Project","project-type":[{"name":"Evaluation Study","slug":"evaluation-study","term_taxonomy_id":29,"taxonomy":"project-type"},{"name":"Product","slug":"product","term_taxonomy_id":28,"taxonomy":"project-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:03:13","attachment":{"ID":812,"src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg","img":"<img width=\"1280\" height=\"1091\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg 1280w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-300x256.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1024x873.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-768x655.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-320x273.jpeg 320w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-640x546.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed.jpeg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/>"},"meta":[]}]}}},{"ID":669,"title":"Marsha Choc","altTitle":"Marsha Choc","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/staff\/marsha-choc\/","slug":"marsha-choc","content":"","description":"","objectType":"Staff","staff-type":[{"name":"R&amp;D Project Teams","slug":"rd-project-teams","term_taxonomy_id":8,"taxonomy":"staff-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:38:06","attachment":{"ID":"32","src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png","img":"<img width=\"612\" height=\"612\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png 612w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-320x320.png 320w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px\" \/>"},"meta":{"staff_metadata":{"name":"Marsha Choc","role":"Project Coordinator","image":false,"social_links":{"linkedin":"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/marsha-choc\/","facebook":"","x_twitter":"","email":""},"intro_text":"Marsha Choc was a Project Coordinator\u00a0at the University of California, Irvine.","bio":"","projects":[{"ID":519,"title":"Fraction Ball","altTitle":"Fraction Ball","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/project\/fraction-ball\/","slug":"fraction-ball","content":"<!-- wp:acf\/feature-row {\"name\":\"acf\/feature-row\",\"data\":{\"feature_row_headline\":\"Project Approach\",\"_feature_row_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_headline\",\"feature_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball\u2019s approach weaves together math, executive function skills, and equity to help students deepen their understanding of rational numbers through outdoor games and classroom activities. \",\"_feature_row_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_subheading\",\"feature_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_feature_row_buttons\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_buttons\",\"feature_row_card_type\":\"category_card\",\"_feature_row_card_type\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_card_type\",\"feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"Math.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"Mathematics\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"Playful embodied cognition approach to rational number understanding in grades 4\u20135, including fraction magnitude, equivalence, addition\/subtraction, and conversions.\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"Executive-Function.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"Executive Function Skills\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eOpportunities to adaptively monitor, plan, update, and shift thinking within reasoning about rational numbers in basketball games and 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Team roles provide opportunities to participate in a variety of ways, ensuring that all students, including multilingual learners, can be involved.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards\":3,\"_feature_row_cards\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards\",\"feature_row_padding\":\"both\",\"_feature_row_padding\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_padding\",\"feature_row\":\"\",\"_feature_row\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb0188b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/stat-row {\"name\":\"acf\/stat-row\",\"data\":{\"stat_row_headline\":\"Project Impact \",\"_stat_row_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_headline\",\"stat_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball has produced measurable impact in classrooms, reaching thousands of students and educators, while contributing research findings to advance math education.\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"4,400\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"students reached through Fraction Ball\u2019s work with the EF+Math program\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"23\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"school partners involved in research, development, co-design, and evaluation \\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"45+\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"publications and resources disseminated with Fraction Ball\u2019s learnings\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container\":3,\"_stat_row_stat_container\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container\",\"stat_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_stat_row_buttons\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_buttons\",\"stat_row_background_image\":1414,\"_stat_row_background_image\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_background_image\",\"stat_row\":\"\",\"_stat_row\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb018de\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-list {\"name\":\"acf\/text-list\",\"data\":{\"text_list_headline\":\"Key Insights and Innovations \",\"_text_list_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"Physical movement makes learning fractions collaborative and joyful\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/brilliantfuture.uci.edu\/fraction-ball-math-game-spreads-with-help-of-philanthropy\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003ereimagines the schoolyard\\u003c\/a\\u003e as a place for learning by overlaying fraction and decimal markings onto an existing basketball court that becomes the basis for Fraction Ball\u2019s court-based games. The traditional 3-point arc becomes 1 point, while smaller arcs represent fractional points. A number line tracks the score, allowing students to visualize magnitude and practice converting between fractions and decimals as they play. This embodied learning approach\u2014where physical movement connects directly to mathematical concepts\u2014decreases math anxiety while building rational number understanding, creating an environment for students where math can be collaborative and joyful.\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball leads to positive impacts on  fraction learning and contextualized EF skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"Findings from across two independent evaluation studies were consistent in showing that Fraction Ball had statistically significant, positive impacts on measures of fraction learning and contextualized EF skills. Notably, \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/osf.io\/najd6\/files\/mf7n9\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eevaluation study findings from 2024-25\\u003c\/a\\u003e showed that students who used Fraction Ball performed significantly better on an overall assessment of fraction learning and improved by more than 12-percentile-points on fractions-to-decimals conversion items, when compared to students who did not use Fraction Ball. Across both studies, students who used Fraction Ball also demonstrated stronger planning skills on a measure of EF skills in a math-based context.\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"Bottle Cap Bonanza: Student-designed game connects the court to the classroom\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"Students from an \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-the-femineers\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eall-female engineering afterschool club\\u003c\/a\\u003e in Southern California invented \\u003ci\\u003eBottle Cap Bonanza\\u003c\/i\\u003e\u2014a tabletop game that teaches fraction concepts through shuffleboard-style play using everyday materials like bottle caps and a poster board. Recognizing the value of this student-created innovation, the Fraction Ball team integrated it as a core component of their classroom activities, illustrating how co-design can elevate student voice and create more effective approaches to math learning.\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball empowers teachers to engage in student-centered, collaborative learning\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball creates space for interactive, collaborative problem solving where students lead with confidence. When teachers step back and allow students to own the learning on the court\u2014making decisions, collaborating with peers, and discovering mathematical connections\u2014their \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/www.k12dive.com\/news\/students-math-fractions-decimals-play-executive-function-California\/722657\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003einstructional approach\\u003c\/a\\u003e fundamentally shifts. Teachers see new levels of teamwork, sportsmanship, and joy that ripple beyond the court, nourishing academic growth and uniquely human skills. They report that this experience has changed how they think about delivering math instruction in their classroom, inspiring them to bring more student-centered, collaborative practices to other lessons and learning contexts.\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"Playful assessment captures both math and executive function skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"The \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly-video-game-demo\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eFraction Ball \\u0022Exactly\u201d video game\\u003c\/a\\u003e offers educators valuable insights into their students\u2019 learning through a \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003evalidated, playful assessment\\u003c\/a\\u003e of planning skills, assessed within the context of fractions. 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Compared to other movement-based math programs, Fraction Ball distinguishes itself through its intentional integration of rigorous mathematical learning with kinesthetic engagement. It excels at fostering student collaboration, agency, and conceptual thinking.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"Rennie Center for Education Research and Policy, EF+Math Competitive Product Analysis\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"\\u0022Being able to engage in Fraction Ball as a teacher made me feel seen and I appreciated that my kids were finally getting seen. Their voices, and my voice, were being elevated in research, and I was excited to learn that the communities that I serve (primarily Black and Brown students) were going to finally make it into research, and have a space in that community of researchers.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"Lourdes Acevedo-Farag, R\\u0026D project team member\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball ran so smoothly this year, based on our suggestions from last year... We felt super valued, and we were able to execute the lessons with fidelity, based on our suggestions. My opinion and my voice mattered.\u201d \",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"Julie Laguna-Caturegli, district partner\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes\":3,\"_testimonials_quotes\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes\",\"testimonials\":\"\",\"_testimonials\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cb6\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/featured-resources {\"name\":\"acf\/featured-resources\",\"data\":{\"featured_resources_headline\":\"Research Highlights\",\"_featured_resources_headline\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_headline\",\"featured_resources_resources\":[\"910\",\"992\",\"1009\",\"1079\"],\"_featured_resources_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_resources\",\"featured_resources\":\"\",\"_featured_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cc9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/staff-teaser-grid {\"name\":\"acf\/staff-teaser-grid\",\"data\":{\"staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"Project Team\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_headline\",\"staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":[\"653\",\"654\",\"655\",\"656\",\"657\",\"659\",\"658\",\"661\",\"660\",\"662\",\"663\",\"664\",\"665\",\"666\",\"667\",\"668\",\"669\",\"670\",\"671\",\"566\",\"672\",\"673\",\"562\",\"674\",\"675\",\"676\"],\"_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01ce9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-row {\"name\":\"acf\/text-row\",\"data\":{\"text_row_headline\":\"Acknowledgments \",\"_text_row_headline\":\"field_text_row_text_row_headline\",\"text_row_subheading\":\"\",\"_text_row_subheading\":\"field_text_row_text_row_subheading\",\"text_row_content\":\"Fraction Ball thrives because of the educators, students, administrators, and community partners who bring playful math learning to life. We are especially grateful to the Santa Ana Unified School District, El Rancho Unified School District, Lynwood Unified School District, and El Sol Academy\u2014the community where Fraction Ball first took shape. Their commitment to joyful, equitable math learning continues to guide and inspire the work.\\r\\n\\r\\nWe also gratefully acknowledge the leadership of the University of California, Irvine, in partnership with Juego!.\",\"_text_row_content\":\"field_text_row_text_row_content\",\"text_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_text_row_buttons\":\"field_text_row_text_row_buttons\",\"text_row_alignment\":\"left\",\"_text_row_alignment\":\"field_text_row_text_row_alignment\",\"text_row\":\"\",\"_text_row\":\"field_text_row_text_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d09\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/full-width-cta {\"name\":\"acf\/full-width-cta\",\"data\":{\"full_width_cta_headline\":\"Explore Our R\\u0026D Projects\",\"_full_width_cta_headline\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_headline\",\"full_width_cta_subheading\":\"The EF+Math portfolio of R\\u0026D projects developed innovative math learning products and advanced research on mathematics learning, executive function skills, and equitable learning experiences using inclusive R\\u0026D methods.\",\"_full_width_cta_subheading\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_subheading\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"View All R\\u0026D Projects\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/projects\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button_style\",\"full_width_cta_buttons\":1,\"_full_width_cta_buttons\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons\",\"full_width_cta\":\"\",\"_full_width_cta\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d26\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","description":"","objectType":"Project","project-type":[{"name":"Evaluation Study","slug":"evaluation-study","term_taxonomy_id":29,"taxonomy":"project-type"},{"name":"Product","slug":"product","term_taxonomy_id":28,"taxonomy":"project-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:03:13","attachment":{"ID":812,"src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg","img":"<img width=\"1280\" height=\"1091\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg 1280w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-300x256.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1024x873.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-768x655.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-320x273.jpeg 320w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-640x546.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed.jpeg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/>"},"meta":[]}]}}},{"ID":670,"title":"Matthew Tullgren","altTitle":"Matthew Tullgren","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/staff\/matthew-riley-tullgren\/","slug":"matthew-riley-tullgren","content":"","description":"","objectType":"Staff","staff-type":[{"name":"R&amp;D Project Teams","slug":"rd-project-teams","term_taxonomy_id":8,"taxonomy":"staff-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:38:06","attachment":{"ID":"32","src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png","img":"<img width=\"612\" height=\"612\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png 612w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-320x320.png 320w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px\" \/>"},"meta":{"staff_metadata":{"name":"Matthew Tullgren","role":"Research Assistant","image":false,"social_links":{"linkedin":"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/matthew-tullgren-ab18b1327\/","facebook":"","x_twitter":"","email":"mtullgre@uci.edu"},"intro_text":"Matthew Riley Tullgren is a Research Assistant\u00a0at the University of California, Irvine.","bio":"","projects":[{"ID":519,"title":"Fraction Ball","altTitle":"Fraction Ball","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/project\/fraction-ball\/","slug":"fraction-ball","content":"<!-- wp:acf\/feature-row {\"name\":\"acf\/feature-row\",\"data\":{\"feature_row_headline\":\"Project Approach\",\"_feature_row_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_headline\",\"feature_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball\u2019s approach weaves together math, executive function skills, and equity to help students deepen their understanding of rational numbers through outdoor games and classroom activities. \",\"_feature_row_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_subheading\",\"feature_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_feature_row_buttons\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_buttons\",\"feature_row_card_type\":\"category_card\",\"_feature_row_card_type\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_card_type\",\"feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"Math.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"Mathematics\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"Playful embodied cognition approach to rational number understanding in grades 4\u20135, including fraction magnitude, equivalence, addition\/subtraction, and conversions.\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"Executive-Function.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"Executive Function Skills\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eOpportunities to adaptively monitor, plan, update, and shift thinking within reasoning about rational numbers in basketball games and 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Team roles provide opportunities to participate in a variety of ways, ensuring that all students, including multilingual learners, can be involved.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards\":3,\"_feature_row_cards\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards\",\"feature_row_padding\":\"both\",\"_feature_row_padding\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_padding\",\"feature_row\":\"\",\"_feature_row\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb0188b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/stat-row {\"name\":\"acf\/stat-row\",\"data\":{\"stat_row_headline\":\"Project Impact \",\"_stat_row_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_headline\",\"stat_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball has produced measurable impact in classrooms, reaching thousands of students and educators, while contributing research findings to advance math education.\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"4,400\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"students reached through Fraction Ball\u2019s work with the EF+Math program\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"23\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"school partners involved in research, development, co-design, and evaluation \\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"45+\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"publications and resources disseminated with Fraction Ball\u2019s learnings\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container\":3,\"_stat_row_stat_container\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container\",\"stat_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_stat_row_buttons\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_buttons\",\"stat_row_background_image\":1414,\"_stat_row_background_image\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_background_image\",\"stat_row\":\"\",\"_stat_row\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb018de\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-list {\"name\":\"acf\/text-list\",\"data\":{\"text_list_headline\":\"Key Insights and Innovations \",\"_text_list_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"Physical movement makes learning fractions collaborative and joyful\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/brilliantfuture.uci.edu\/fraction-ball-math-game-spreads-with-help-of-philanthropy\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003ereimagines the schoolyard\\u003c\/a\\u003e as a place for learning by overlaying fraction and decimal markings onto an existing basketball court that becomes the basis for Fraction Ball\u2019s court-based games. The traditional 3-point arc becomes 1 point, while smaller arcs represent fractional points. A number line tracks the score, allowing students to visualize magnitude and practice converting between fractions and decimals as they play. This embodied learning approach\u2014where physical movement connects directly to mathematical concepts\u2014decreases math anxiety while building rational number understanding, creating an environment for students where math can be collaborative and joyful.\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball leads to positive impacts on  fraction learning and contextualized EF skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"Findings from across two independent evaluation studies were consistent in showing that Fraction Ball had statistically significant, positive impacts on measures of fraction learning and contextualized EF skills. Notably, \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/osf.io\/najd6\/files\/mf7n9\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eevaluation study findings from 2024-25\\u003c\/a\\u003e showed that students who used Fraction Ball performed significantly better on an overall assessment of fraction learning and improved by more than 12-percentile-points on fractions-to-decimals conversion items, when compared to students who did not use Fraction Ball. Across both studies, students who used Fraction Ball also demonstrated stronger planning skills on a measure of EF skills in a math-based context.\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"Bottle Cap Bonanza: Student-designed game connects the court to the classroom\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"Students from an \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-the-femineers\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eall-female engineering afterschool club\\u003c\/a\\u003e in Southern California invented \\u003ci\\u003eBottle Cap Bonanza\\u003c\/i\\u003e\u2014a tabletop game that teaches fraction concepts through shuffleboard-style play using everyday materials like bottle caps and a poster board. Recognizing the value of this student-created innovation, the Fraction Ball team integrated it as a core component of their classroom activities, illustrating how co-design can elevate student voice and create more effective approaches to math learning.\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball empowers teachers to engage in student-centered, collaborative learning\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball creates space for interactive, collaborative problem solving where students lead with confidence. When teachers step back and allow students to own the learning on the court\u2014making decisions, collaborating with peers, and discovering mathematical connections\u2014their \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/www.k12dive.com\/news\/students-math-fractions-decimals-play-executive-function-California\/722657\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003einstructional approach\\u003c\/a\\u003e fundamentally shifts. Teachers see new levels of teamwork, sportsmanship, and joy that ripple beyond the court, nourishing academic growth and uniquely human skills. They report that this experience has changed how they think about delivering math instruction in their classroom, inspiring them to bring more student-centered, collaborative practices to other lessons and learning contexts.\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"Playful assessment captures both math and executive function skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"The \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly-video-game-demo\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eFraction Ball \\u0022Exactly\u201d video game\\u003c\/a\\u003e offers educators valuable insights into their students\u2019 learning through a \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003evalidated, playful assessment\\u003c\/a\\u003e of planning skills, assessed within the context of fractions. This stealth assessment gathers data useful to researchers and educators, while avoiding testing burden on students or invoking test anxiety.\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items\":5,\"_text_list_list_items\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items\",\"text_list\":\"\",\"_text_list\":\"field_text_list_text_list\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c4b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/video-demo {\"name\":\"acf\/video-demo\",\"data\":{\"video_demo_headline\":\"See Fraction Ball in Action\",\"_video_demo_headline\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_headline\",\"video_demo_subheading\":\"\",\"_video_demo_subheading\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_subheading\",\"video_demo_video_url\":\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=6ps6nfIA738\",\"_video_demo_video_url\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_url\",\"video_demo_video_cover\":1625,\"_video_demo_video_cover\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_cover\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"Learn More\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.gojuego.com\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button_style\",\"video_demo_buttons\":1,\"_video_demo_buttons\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons\",\"video_demo\":\"\",\"_video_demo\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c94\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/testimonials {\"name\":\"acf\/testimonials\",\"data\":{\"testimonials_headline\":\"VOICES FROM THE EF+MATH COMMUNITY\",\"_testimonials_headline\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_headline\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball creates joyful, physically active learning environments where conceptual understanding of fractions and executive function skills are developed together. Compared to other movement-based math programs, Fraction Ball distinguishes itself through its intentional integration of rigorous mathematical learning with kinesthetic engagement. It excels at fostering student collaboration, agency, and conceptual thinking.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"Rennie Center for Education Research and Policy, EF+Math Competitive Product Analysis\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"\\u0022Being able to engage in Fraction Ball as a teacher made me feel seen and I appreciated that my kids were finally getting seen. Their voices, and my voice, were being elevated in research, and I was excited to learn that the communities that I serve (primarily Black and Brown students) were going to finally make it into research, and have a space in that community of researchers.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"Lourdes Acevedo-Farag, R\\u0026D project team member\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball ran so smoothly this year, based on our suggestions from last year... We felt super valued, and we were able to execute the lessons with fidelity, based on our suggestions. My opinion and my voice mattered.\u201d \",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"Julie Laguna-Caturegli, district partner\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes\":3,\"_testimonials_quotes\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes\",\"testimonials\":\"\",\"_testimonials\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cb6\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/featured-resources {\"name\":\"acf\/featured-resources\",\"data\":{\"featured_resources_headline\":\"Research Highlights\",\"_featured_resources_headline\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_headline\",\"featured_resources_resources\":[\"910\",\"992\",\"1009\",\"1079\"],\"_featured_resources_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_resources\",\"featured_resources\":\"\",\"_featured_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cc9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/staff-teaser-grid {\"name\":\"acf\/staff-teaser-grid\",\"data\":{\"staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"Project Team\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_headline\",\"staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":[\"653\",\"654\",\"655\",\"656\",\"657\",\"659\",\"658\",\"661\",\"660\",\"662\",\"663\",\"664\",\"665\",\"666\",\"667\",\"668\",\"669\",\"670\",\"671\",\"566\",\"672\",\"673\",\"562\",\"674\",\"675\",\"676\"],\"_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01ce9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-row {\"name\":\"acf\/text-row\",\"data\":{\"text_row_headline\":\"Acknowledgments \",\"_text_row_headline\":\"field_text_row_text_row_headline\",\"text_row_subheading\":\"\",\"_text_row_subheading\":\"field_text_row_text_row_subheading\",\"text_row_content\":\"Fraction Ball thrives because of the educators, students, administrators, and community partners who bring playful math learning to life. We are especially grateful to the Santa Ana Unified School District, El Rancho Unified School District, Lynwood Unified School District, and El Sol Academy\u2014the community where Fraction Ball first took shape. Their commitment to joyful, equitable math learning continues to guide and inspire the work.\\r\\n\\r\\nWe also gratefully acknowledge the leadership of the University of California, Irvine, in partnership with Juego!.\",\"_text_row_content\":\"field_text_row_text_row_content\",\"text_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_text_row_buttons\":\"field_text_row_text_row_buttons\",\"text_row_alignment\":\"left\",\"_text_row_alignment\":\"field_text_row_text_row_alignment\",\"text_row\":\"\",\"_text_row\":\"field_text_row_text_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d09\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/full-width-cta {\"name\":\"acf\/full-width-cta\",\"data\":{\"full_width_cta_headline\":\"Explore Our R\\u0026D Projects\",\"_full_width_cta_headline\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_headline\",\"full_width_cta_subheading\":\"The EF+Math portfolio of R\\u0026D projects developed innovative math learning products and advanced research on mathematics learning, executive function skills, and equitable learning experiences using inclusive R\\u0026D methods.\",\"_full_width_cta_subheading\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_subheading\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"View All R\\u0026D Projects\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/projects\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button_style\",\"full_width_cta_buttons\":1,\"_full_width_cta_buttons\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons\",\"full_width_cta\":\"\",\"_full_width_cta\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d26\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","description":"","objectType":"Project","project-type":[{"name":"Evaluation Study","slug":"evaluation-study","term_taxonomy_id":29,"taxonomy":"project-type"},{"name":"Product","slug":"product","term_taxonomy_id":28,"taxonomy":"project-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:03:13","attachment":{"ID":812,"src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg","img":"<img width=\"1280\" height=\"1091\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg 1280w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-300x256.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1024x873.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-768x655.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-320x273.jpeg 320w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-640x546.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed.jpeg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/>"},"meta":[]}]}}},{"ID":671,"title":"Milan Vu","altTitle":"Milan Vu","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/staff\/milan-vu\/","slug":"milan-vu","content":"","description":"","objectType":"Staff","staff-type":[{"name":"R&amp;D Project Teams","slug":"rd-project-teams","term_taxonomy_id":8,"taxonomy":"staff-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:38:06","attachment":{"ID":"32","src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png","img":"<img width=\"612\" height=\"612\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png 612w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-320x320.png 320w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px\" \/>"},"meta":{"staff_metadata":{"name":"Milan Vu","role":"Research Assistant","image":false,"social_links":{"linkedin":"","facebook":"","x_twitter":"","email":""},"intro_text":"Milan Vu was a Research Assistant\u00a0at the University of California, Irvine.","bio":"","projects":[{"ID":519,"title":"Fraction Ball","altTitle":"Fraction Ball","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/project\/fraction-ball\/","slug":"fraction-ball","content":"<!-- wp:acf\/feature-row {\"name\":\"acf\/feature-row\",\"data\":{\"feature_row_headline\":\"Project Approach\",\"_feature_row_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_headline\",\"feature_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball\u2019s approach weaves together math, executive function skills, and equity to help students deepen their understanding of rational numbers through outdoor games and classroom activities. \",\"_feature_row_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_subheading\",\"feature_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_feature_row_buttons\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_buttons\",\"feature_row_card_type\":\"category_card\",\"_feature_row_card_type\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_card_type\",\"feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"Math.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"Mathematics\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"Playful embodied cognition approach to rational number understanding in grades 4\u20135, including fraction magnitude, equivalence, addition\/subtraction, and conversions.\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"Executive-Function.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"Executive Function Skills\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eOpportunities to adaptively monitor, plan, update, and shift thinking within reasoning about rational numbers in basketball games and 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Team roles provide opportunities to participate in a variety of ways, ensuring that all students, including multilingual learners, can be involved.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards\":3,\"_feature_row_cards\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards\",\"feature_row_padding\":\"both\",\"_feature_row_padding\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_padding\",\"feature_row\":\"\",\"_feature_row\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb0188b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/stat-row {\"name\":\"acf\/stat-row\",\"data\":{\"stat_row_headline\":\"Project Impact \",\"_stat_row_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_headline\",\"stat_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball has produced measurable impact in classrooms, reaching thousands of students and educators, while contributing research findings to advance math education.\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"4,400\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"students reached through Fraction Ball\u2019s work with the EF+Math program\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"23\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"school partners involved in research, development, co-design, and evaluation \\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"45+\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"publications and resources disseminated with Fraction Ball\u2019s learnings\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container\":3,\"_stat_row_stat_container\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container\",\"stat_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_stat_row_buttons\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_buttons\",\"stat_row_background_image\":1414,\"_stat_row_background_image\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_background_image\",\"stat_row\":\"\",\"_stat_row\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb018de\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-list {\"name\":\"acf\/text-list\",\"data\":{\"text_list_headline\":\"Key Insights and Innovations \",\"_text_list_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"Physical movement makes learning fractions collaborative and joyful\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/brilliantfuture.uci.edu\/fraction-ball-math-game-spreads-with-help-of-philanthropy\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003ereimagines the schoolyard\\u003c\/a\\u003e as a place for learning by overlaying fraction and decimal markings onto an existing basketball court that becomes the basis for Fraction Ball\u2019s court-based games. The traditional 3-point arc becomes 1 point, while smaller arcs represent fractional points. A number line tracks the score, allowing students to visualize magnitude and practice converting between fractions and decimals as they play. This embodied learning approach\u2014where physical movement connects directly to mathematical concepts\u2014decreases math anxiety while building rational number understanding, creating an environment for students where math can be collaborative and joyful.\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball leads to positive impacts on  fraction learning and contextualized EF skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"Findings from across two independent evaluation studies were consistent in showing that Fraction Ball had statistically significant, positive impacts on measures of fraction learning and contextualized EF skills. Notably, \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/osf.io\/najd6\/files\/mf7n9\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eevaluation study findings from 2024-25\\u003c\/a\\u003e showed that students who used Fraction Ball performed significantly better on an overall assessment of fraction learning and improved by more than 12-percentile-points on fractions-to-decimals conversion items, when compared to students who did not use Fraction Ball. Across both studies, students who used Fraction Ball also demonstrated stronger planning skills on a measure of EF skills in a math-based context.\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"Bottle Cap Bonanza: Student-designed game connects the court to the classroom\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"Students from an \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-the-femineers\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eall-female engineering afterschool club\\u003c\/a\\u003e in Southern California invented \\u003ci\\u003eBottle Cap Bonanza\\u003c\/i\\u003e\u2014a tabletop game that teaches fraction concepts through shuffleboard-style play using everyday materials like bottle caps and a poster board. Recognizing the value of this student-created innovation, the Fraction Ball team integrated it as a core component of their classroom activities, illustrating how co-design can elevate student voice and create more effective approaches to math learning.\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball empowers teachers to engage in student-centered, collaborative learning\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball creates space for interactive, collaborative problem solving where students lead with confidence. When teachers step back and allow students to own the learning on the court\u2014making decisions, collaborating with peers, and discovering mathematical connections\u2014their \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/www.k12dive.com\/news\/students-math-fractions-decimals-play-executive-function-California\/722657\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003einstructional approach\\u003c\/a\\u003e fundamentally shifts. Teachers see new levels of teamwork, sportsmanship, and joy that ripple beyond the court, nourishing academic growth and uniquely human skills. They report that this experience has changed how they think about delivering math instruction in their classroom, inspiring them to bring more student-centered, collaborative practices to other lessons and learning contexts.\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"Playful assessment captures both math and executive function skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"The \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly-video-game-demo\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eFraction Ball \\u0022Exactly\u201d video game\\u003c\/a\\u003e offers educators valuable insights into their students\u2019 learning through a \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003evalidated, playful assessment\\u003c\/a\\u003e of planning skills, assessed within the context of fractions. This stealth assessment gathers data useful to researchers and educators, while avoiding testing burden on students or invoking test anxiety.\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items\":5,\"_text_list_list_items\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items\",\"text_list\":\"\",\"_text_list\":\"field_text_list_text_list\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c4b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/video-demo {\"name\":\"acf\/video-demo\",\"data\":{\"video_demo_headline\":\"See Fraction Ball in Action\",\"_video_demo_headline\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_headline\",\"video_demo_subheading\":\"\",\"_video_demo_subheading\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_subheading\",\"video_demo_video_url\":\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=6ps6nfIA738\",\"_video_demo_video_url\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_url\",\"video_demo_video_cover\":1625,\"_video_demo_video_cover\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_cover\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"Learn More\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.gojuego.com\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button_style\",\"video_demo_buttons\":1,\"_video_demo_buttons\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons\",\"video_demo\":\"\",\"_video_demo\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c94\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/testimonials {\"name\":\"acf\/testimonials\",\"data\":{\"testimonials_headline\":\"VOICES FROM THE EF+MATH COMMUNITY\",\"_testimonials_headline\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_headline\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball creates joyful, physically active learning environments where conceptual understanding of fractions and executive function skills are developed together. Compared to other movement-based math programs, Fraction Ball distinguishes itself through its intentional integration of rigorous mathematical learning with kinesthetic engagement. It excels at fostering student collaboration, agency, and conceptual thinking.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"Rennie Center for Education Research and Policy, EF+Math Competitive Product Analysis\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"\\u0022Being able to engage in Fraction Ball as a teacher made me feel seen and I appreciated that my kids were finally getting seen. Their voices, and my voice, were being elevated in research, and I was excited to learn that the communities that I serve (primarily Black and Brown students) were going to finally make it into research, and have a space in that community of researchers.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"Lourdes Acevedo-Farag, R\\u0026D project team member\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball ran so smoothly this year, based on our suggestions from last year... We felt super valued, and we were able to execute the lessons with fidelity, based on our suggestions. My opinion and my voice mattered.\u201d \",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"Julie Laguna-Caturegli, district partner\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes\":3,\"_testimonials_quotes\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes\",\"testimonials\":\"\",\"_testimonials\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cb6\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/featured-resources {\"name\":\"acf\/featured-resources\",\"data\":{\"featured_resources_headline\":\"Research Highlights\",\"_featured_resources_headline\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_headline\",\"featured_resources_resources\":[\"910\",\"992\",\"1009\",\"1079\"],\"_featured_resources_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_resources\",\"featured_resources\":\"\",\"_featured_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cc9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/staff-teaser-grid {\"name\":\"acf\/staff-teaser-grid\",\"data\":{\"staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"Project Team\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_headline\",\"staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":[\"653\",\"654\",\"655\",\"656\",\"657\",\"659\",\"658\",\"661\",\"660\",\"662\",\"663\",\"664\",\"665\",\"666\",\"667\",\"668\",\"669\",\"670\",\"671\",\"566\",\"672\",\"673\",\"562\",\"674\",\"675\",\"676\"],\"_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01ce9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-row {\"name\":\"acf\/text-row\",\"data\":{\"text_row_headline\":\"Acknowledgments \",\"_text_row_headline\":\"field_text_row_text_row_headline\",\"text_row_subheading\":\"\",\"_text_row_subheading\":\"field_text_row_text_row_subheading\",\"text_row_content\":\"Fraction Ball thrives because of the educators, students, administrators, and community partners who bring playful math learning to life. We are especially grateful to the Santa Ana Unified School District, El Rancho Unified School District, Lynwood Unified School District, and El Sol Academy\u2014the community where Fraction Ball first took shape. Their commitment to joyful, equitable math learning continues to guide and inspire the work.\\r\\n\\r\\nWe also gratefully acknowledge the leadership of the University of California, Irvine, in partnership with Juego!.\",\"_text_row_content\":\"field_text_row_text_row_content\",\"text_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_text_row_buttons\":\"field_text_row_text_row_buttons\",\"text_row_alignment\":\"left\",\"_text_row_alignment\":\"field_text_row_text_row_alignment\",\"text_row\":\"\",\"_text_row\":\"field_text_row_text_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d09\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/full-width-cta {\"name\":\"acf\/full-width-cta\",\"data\":{\"full_width_cta_headline\":\"Explore Our R\\u0026D Projects\",\"_full_width_cta_headline\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_headline\",\"full_width_cta_subheading\":\"The EF+Math portfolio of R\\u0026D projects developed innovative math learning products and advanced research on mathematics learning, executive function skills, and equitable learning experiences using inclusive R\\u0026D methods.\",\"_full_width_cta_subheading\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_subheading\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"View All R\\u0026D Projects\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/projects\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button_style\",\"full_width_cta_buttons\":1,\"_full_width_cta_buttons\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons\",\"full_width_cta\":\"\",\"_full_width_cta\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d26\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","description":"","objectType":"Project","project-type":[{"name":"Evaluation Study","slug":"evaluation-study","term_taxonomy_id":29,"taxonomy":"project-type"},{"name":"Product","slug":"product","term_taxonomy_id":28,"taxonomy":"project-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:03:13","attachment":{"ID":812,"src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg","img":"<img width=\"1280\" height=\"1091\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg 1280w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-300x256.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1024x873.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-768x655.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-320x273.jpeg 320w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-640x546.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed.jpeg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/>"},"meta":[]}]}}},{"ID":566,"title":"Pedro Rodriguez","altTitle":"Pedro Rodriguez","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/staff\/pedro-rodriguez\/","slug":"pedro-rodriguez","content":"","description":"","objectType":"Staff","staff-type":[{"name":"Program Advisory Board","slug":"program-advisory-board-pab","term_taxonomy_id":9,"taxonomy":"staff-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:38:05","attachment":{"ID":"32","src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png","img":"<img width=\"612\" height=\"612\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png 612w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-320x320.png 320w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px\" \/>"},"meta":{"staff_metadata":{"name":"Pedro Rodriguez","role":"Educator Leadership Council","image":{"ID":857,"id":857,"title":"59e6efea-pedro","filename":"59e6efea-pedro.jpg","filesize":123395,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/59e6efea-pedro.jpg","link":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/staff\/pedro-rodriguez\/59e6efea-pedro\/","alt":"","author":"1","description":"","caption":"","name":"59e6efea-pedro","status":"inherit","uploaded_to":566,"date":"2025-12-17 19:28:16","modified":"2025-12-17 19:28:16","menu_order":0,"mime_type":"image\/jpeg","type":"image","subtype":"jpeg","icon":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/wp\/wp-includes\/images\/media\/default.png","width":1000,"height":1000,"sizes":{"thumbnail":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/59e6efea-pedro-150x150.jpg","thumbnail-width":150,"thumbnail-height":150,"medium":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/59e6efea-pedro-300x300.jpg","medium-width":300,"medium-height":300,"medium_large":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/59e6efea-pedro-768x768.jpg","medium_large-width":768,"medium_large-height":768,"large":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/59e6efea-pedro.jpg","large-width":1000,"large-height":1000,"1536x1536":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/59e6efea-pedro.jpg","1536x1536-width":1000,"1536x1536-height":1000,"2048x2048":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/59e6efea-pedro.jpg","2048x2048-width":1000,"2048x2048-height":1000,"w320":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/59e6efea-pedro-320x320.jpg","w320-width":320,"w320-height":320,"w640":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/59e6efea-pedro-640x640.jpg","w640-width":640,"w640-height":640,"w1280":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/59e6efea-pedro.jpg","w1280-width":1000,"w1280-height":1000,"w1920":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/59e6efea-pedro.jpg","w1920-width":1000,"w1920-height":1000,"w2560":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/59e6efea-pedro.jpg","w2560-width":1000,"w2560-height":1000,"gform-image-choice-sm":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/59e6efea-pedro.jpg","gform-image-choice-sm-width":300,"gform-image-choice-sm-height":300,"gform-image-choice-md":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/59e6efea-pedro.jpg","gform-image-choice-md-width":400,"gform-image-choice-md-height":400,"gform-image-choice-lg":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/59e6efea-pedro.jpg","gform-image-choice-lg-width":600,"gform-image-choice-lg-height":600}},"social_links":{"linkedin":"","facebook":"","x_twitter":"","email":""},"intro_text":"Pedro Rodriguez was a member of the Educator Leadership Council from 2019-2025. ","bio":"<p>Pedro Rodriguez is a dual language math and science teacher in Harlem, New York, currently teaching Algebra I and biology and preparing students for the New York State Regents. As a lead teacher, peer collaborative teacher, and new teacher instructional coach, he supports colleagues through mentoring, modeling, and professional development. Rodriguez also spearheads Yale\u2019s RULER approach, promoting social-emotional learning across the school community. His leadership centers on fostering academic excellence, equity, and emotional well-being for all students.<\/p>\n","projects":[{"ID":519,"title":"Fraction Ball","altTitle":"Fraction Ball","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/project\/fraction-ball\/","slug":"fraction-ball","content":"<!-- wp:acf\/feature-row {\"name\":\"acf\/feature-row\",\"data\":{\"feature_row_headline\":\"Project Approach\",\"_feature_row_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_headline\",\"feature_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball\u2019s approach weaves together math, executive function skills, and equity to help students deepen their understanding of rational numbers through outdoor games and classroom activities. \",\"_feature_row_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_subheading\",\"feature_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_feature_row_buttons\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_buttons\",\"feature_row_card_type\":\"category_card\",\"_feature_row_card_type\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_card_type\",\"feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"Math.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"Mathematics\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"Playful embodied cognition approach to rational number understanding in grades 4\u20135, including fraction magnitude, equivalence, addition\/subtraction, and conversions.\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"Executive-Function.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"Executive Function Skills\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eOpportunities to adaptively monitor, plan, update, and shift thinking within reasoning about rational numbers in basketball games and strategies.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_2_icon\":\"Equity.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_2_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_2_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_2_headline\":\"Equitable Learning Experiences\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eImproving math-related emotions and teamwork through collaborative learning. Team roles provide opportunities to participate in a variety of ways, ensuring that all students, including multilingual learners, can be involved.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards\":3,\"_feature_row_cards\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards\",\"feature_row_padding\":\"both\",\"_feature_row_padding\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_padding\",\"feature_row\":\"\",\"_feature_row\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb0188b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/stat-row {\"name\":\"acf\/stat-row\",\"data\":{\"stat_row_headline\":\"Project Impact \",\"_stat_row_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_headline\",\"stat_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball has produced measurable impact in classrooms, reaching thousands of students and educators, while contributing research findings to advance math education.\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"4,400\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"students reached through Fraction Ball\u2019s work with the EF+Math program\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"23\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"school partners involved in research, development, co-design, and evaluation \\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"45+\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"publications and resources disseminated with Fraction Ball\u2019s learnings\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container\":3,\"_stat_row_stat_container\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container\",\"stat_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_stat_row_buttons\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_buttons\",\"stat_row_background_image\":1414,\"_stat_row_background_image\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_background_image\",\"stat_row\":\"\",\"_stat_row\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb018de\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-list {\"name\":\"acf\/text-list\",\"data\":{\"text_list_headline\":\"Key Insights and Innovations \",\"_text_list_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"Physical movement makes learning fractions collaborative and joyful\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/brilliantfuture.uci.edu\/fraction-ball-math-game-spreads-with-help-of-philanthropy\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003ereimagines the schoolyard\\u003c\/a\\u003e as a place for learning by overlaying fraction and decimal markings onto an existing basketball court that becomes the basis for Fraction Ball\u2019s court-based games. The traditional 3-point arc becomes 1 point, while smaller arcs represent fractional points. A number line tracks the score, allowing students to visualize magnitude and practice converting between fractions and decimals as they play. This embodied learning approach\u2014where physical movement connects directly to mathematical concepts\u2014decreases math anxiety while building rational number understanding, creating an environment for students where math can be collaborative and joyful.\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball leads to positive impacts on  fraction learning and contextualized EF skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"Findings from across two independent evaluation studies were consistent in showing that Fraction Ball had statistically significant, positive impacts on measures of fraction learning and contextualized EF skills. Notably, \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/osf.io\/najd6\/files\/mf7n9\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eevaluation study findings from 2024-25\\u003c\/a\\u003e showed that students who used Fraction Ball performed significantly better on an overall assessment of fraction learning and improved by more than 12-percentile-points on fractions-to-decimals conversion items, when compared to students who did not use Fraction Ball. Across both studies, students who used Fraction Ball also demonstrated stronger planning skills on a measure of EF skills in a math-based context.\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"Bottle Cap Bonanza: Student-designed game connects the court to the classroom\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"Students from an \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-the-femineers\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eall-female engineering afterschool club\\u003c\/a\\u003e in Southern California invented \\u003ci\\u003eBottle Cap Bonanza\\u003c\/i\\u003e\u2014a tabletop game that teaches fraction concepts through shuffleboard-style play using everyday materials like bottle caps and a poster board. Recognizing the value of this student-created innovation, the Fraction Ball team integrated it as a core component of their classroom activities, illustrating how co-design can elevate student voice and create more effective approaches to math learning.\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball empowers teachers to engage in student-centered, collaborative learning\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball creates space for interactive, collaborative problem solving where students lead with confidence. When teachers step back and allow students to own the learning on the court\u2014making decisions, collaborating with peers, and discovering mathematical connections\u2014their \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/www.k12dive.com\/news\/students-math-fractions-decimals-play-executive-function-California\/722657\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003einstructional approach\\u003c\/a\\u003e fundamentally shifts. Teachers see new levels of teamwork, sportsmanship, and joy that ripple beyond the court, nourishing academic growth and uniquely human skills. They report that this experience has changed how they think about delivering math instruction in their classroom, inspiring them to bring more student-centered, collaborative practices to other lessons and learning contexts.\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"Playful assessment captures both math and executive function skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"The \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly-video-game-demo\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eFraction Ball \\u0022Exactly\u201d video game\\u003c\/a\\u003e offers educators valuable insights into their students\u2019 learning through a \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003evalidated, playful assessment\\u003c\/a\\u003e of planning skills, assessed within the context of fractions. This stealth assessment gathers data useful to researchers and educators, while avoiding testing burden on students or invoking test anxiety.\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items\":5,\"_text_list_list_items\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items\",\"text_list\":\"\",\"_text_list\":\"field_text_list_text_list\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c4b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/video-demo {\"name\":\"acf\/video-demo\",\"data\":{\"video_demo_headline\":\"See Fraction Ball in Action\",\"_video_demo_headline\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_headline\",\"video_demo_subheading\":\"\",\"_video_demo_subheading\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_subheading\",\"video_demo_video_url\":\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=6ps6nfIA738\",\"_video_demo_video_url\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_url\",\"video_demo_video_cover\":1625,\"_video_demo_video_cover\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_cover\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"Learn More\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.gojuego.com\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button_style\",\"video_demo_buttons\":1,\"_video_demo_buttons\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons\",\"video_demo\":\"\",\"_video_demo\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c94\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/testimonials {\"name\":\"acf\/testimonials\",\"data\":{\"testimonials_headline\":\"VOICES FROM THE EF+MATH COMMUNITY\",\"_testimonials_headline\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_headline\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball creates joyful, physically active learning environments where conceptual understanding of fractions and executive function skills are developed together. Compared to other movement-based math programs, Fraction Ball distinguishes itself through its intentional integration of rigorous mathematical learning with kinesthetic engagement. It excels at fostering student collaboration, agency, and conceptual thinking.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"Rennie Center for Education Research and Policy, EF+Math Competitive Product Analysis\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"\\u0022Being able to engage in Fraction Ball as a teacher made me feel seen and I appreciated that my kids were finally getting seen. Their voices, and my voice, were being elevated in research, and I was excited to learn that the communities that I serve (primarily Black and Brown students) were going to finally make it into research, and have a space in that community of researchers.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"Lourdes Acevedo-Farag, R\\u0026D project team member\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball ran so smoothly this year, based on our suggestions from last year... We felt super valued, and we were able to execute the lessons with fidelity, based on our suggestions. My opinion and my voice mattered.\u201d \",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"Julie Laguna-Caturegli, district partner\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes\":3,\"_testimonials_quotes\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes\",\"testimonials\":\"\",\"_testimonials\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cb6\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/featured-resources {\"name\":\"acf\/featured-resources\",\"data\":{\"featured_resources_headline\":\"Research Highlights\",\"_featured_resources_headline\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_headline\",\"featured_resources_resources\":[\"910\",\"992\",\"1009\",\"1079\"],\"_featured_resources_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_resources\",\"featured_resources\":\"\",\"_featured_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cc9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/staff-teaser-grid {\"name\":\"acf\/staff-teaser-grid\",\"data\":{\"staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"Project Team\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_headline\",\"staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":[\"653\",\"654\",\"655\",\"656\",\"657\",\"659\",\"658\",\"661\",\"660\",\"662\",\"663\",\"664\",\"665\",\"666\",\"667\",\"668\",\"669\",\"670\",\"671\",\"566\",\"672\",\"673\",\"562\",\"674\",\"675\",\"676\"],\"_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01ce9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-row {\"name\":\"acf\/text-row\",\"data\":{\"text_row_headline\":\"Acknowledgments \",\"_text_row_headline\":\"field_text_row_text_row_headline\",\"text_row_subheading\":\"\",\"_text_row_subheading\":\"field_text_row_text_row_subheading\",\"text_row_content\":\"Fraction Ball thrives because of the educators, students, administrators, and community partners who bring playful math learning to life. We are especially grateful to the Santa Ana Unified School District, El Rancho Unified School District, Lynwood Unified School District, and El Sol Academy\u2014the community where Fraction Ball first took shape. Their commitment to joyful, equitable math learning continues to guide and inspire the work.\\r\\n\\r\\nWe also gratefully acknowledge the leadership of the University of California, Irvine, in partnership with Juego!.\",\"_text_row_content\":\"field_text_row_text_row_content\",\"text_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_text_row_buttons\":\"field_text_row_text_row_buttons\",\"text_row_alignment\":\"left\",\"_text_row_alignment\":\"field_text_row_text_row_alignment\",\"text_row\":\"\",\"_text_row\":\"field_text_row_text_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d09\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/full-width-cta {\"name\":\"acf\/full-width-cta\",\"data\":{\"full_width_cta_headline\":\"Explore Our R\\u0026D Projects\",\"_full_width_cta_headline\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_headline\",\"full_width_cta_subheading\":\"The EF+Math portfolio of R\\u0026D projects developed innovative math learning products and advanced research on mathematics learning, executive function skills, and equitable learning experiences using inclusive R\\u0026D methods.\",\"_full_width_cta_subheading\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_subheading\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"View All R\\u0026D Projects\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/projects\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button_style\",\"full_width_cta_buttons\":1,\"_full_width_cta_buttons\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons\",\"full_width_cta\":\"\",\"_full_width_cta\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d26\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","description":"","objectType":"Project","project-type":[{"name":"Evaluation Study","slug":"evaluation-study","term_taxonomy_id":29,"taxonomy":"project-type"},{"name":"Product","slug":"product","term_taxonomy_id":28,"taxonomy":"project-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:03:13","attachment":{"ID":812,"src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg","img":"<img width=\"1280\" height=\"1091\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg 1280w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-300x256.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1024x873.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-768x655.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-320x273.jpeg 320w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-640x546.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed.jpeg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/>"},"meta":[]}]}}},{"ID":672,"title":"Sabrina Valdez","altTitle":"Sabrina Valdez","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/staff\/sabrina-valdez\/","slug":"sabrina-valdez","content":"","description":"","objectType":"Staff","staff-type":[{"name":"R&amp;D Project Teams","slug":"rd-project-teams","term_taxonomy_id":8,"taxonomy":"staff-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:38:06","attachment":{"ID":"32","src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png","img":"<img width=\"612\" height=\"612\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png 612w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-320x320.png 320w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px\" \/>"},"meta":{"staff_metadata":{"name":"Sabrina Valdez","role":"Research Assistant","image":false,"social_links":{"linkedin":"","facebook":"","x_twitter":"","email":""},"intro_text":"Sabrina Valdez was a Research Assistant\u00a0at the University of California, Irvine.","bio":"","projects":[{"ID":519,"title":"Fraction Ball","altTitle":"Fraction Ball","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/project\/fraction-ball\/","slug":"fraction-ball","content":"<!-- wp:acf\/feature-row {\"name\":\"acf\/feature-row\",\"data\":{\"feature_row_headline\":\"Project Approach\",\"_feature_row_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_headline\",\"feature_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball\u2019s approach weaves together math, executive function skills, and equity to help students deepen their understanding of rational numbers through outdoor games and classroom activities. \",\"_feature_row_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_subheading\",\"feature_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_feature_row_buttons\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_buttons\",\"feature_row_card_type\":\"category_card\",\"_feature_row_card_type\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_card_type\",\"feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"Math.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"Mathematics\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"Playful embodied cognition approach to rational number understanding in grades 4\u20135, including fraction magnitude, equivalence, addition\/subtraction, and conversions.\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"Executive-Function.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"Executive Function Skills\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eOpportunities to adaptively monitor, plan, update, and shift thinking within reasoning about rational numbers in basketball games and 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Team roles provide opportunities to participate in a variety of ways, ensuring that all students, including multilingual learners, can be involved.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards\":3,\"_feature_row_cards\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards\",\"feature_row_padding\":\"both\",\"_feature_row_padding\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_padding\",\"feature_row\":\"\",\"_feature_row\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb0188b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/stat-row {\"name\":\"acf\/stat-row\",\"data\":{\"stat_row_headline\":\"Project Impact \",\"_stat_row_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_headline\",\"stat_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball has produced measurable impact in classrooms, reaching thousands of students and educators, while contributing research findings to advance math education.\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"4,400\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"students reached through Fraction Ball\u2019s work with the EF+Math program\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"23\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"school partners involved in research, development, co-design, and evaluation \\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"45+\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"publications and resources disseminated with Fraction Ball\u2019s learnings\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container\":3,\"_stat_row_stat_container\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container\",\"stat_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_stat_row_buttons\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_buttons\",\"stat_row_background_image\":1414,\"_stat_row_background_image\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_background_image\",\"stat_row\":\"\",\"_stat_row\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb018de\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-list {\"name\":\"acf\/text-list\",\"data\":{\"text_list_headline\":\"Key Insights and Innovations \",\"_text_list_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"Physical movement makes learning fractions collaborative and joyful\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/brilliantfuture.uci.edu\/fraction-ball-math-game-spreads-with-help-of-philanthropy\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003ereimagines the schoolyard\\u003c\/a\\u003e as a place for learning by overlaying fraction and decimal markings onto an existing basketball court that becomes the basis for Fraction Ball\u2019s court-based games. The traditional 3-point arc becomes 1 point, while smaller arcs represent fractional points. A number line tracks the score, allowing students to visualize magnitude and practice converting between fractions and decimals as they play. This embodied learning approach\u2014where physical movement connects directly to mathematical concepts\u2014decreases math anxiety while building rational number understanding, creating an environment for students where math can be collaborative and joyful.\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball leads to positive impacts on  fraction learning and contextualized EF skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"Findings from across two independent evaluation studies were consistent in showing that Fraction Ball had statistically significant, positive impacts on measures of fraction learning and contextualized EF skills. Notably, \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/osf.io\/najd6\/files\/mf7n9\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eevaluation study findings from 2024-25\\u003c\/a\\u003e showed that students who used Fraction Ball performed significantly better on an overall assessment of fraction learning and improved by more than 12-percentile-points on fractions-to-decimals conversion items, when compared to students who did not use Fraction Ball. Across both studies, students who used Fraction Ball also demonstrated stronger planning skills on a measure of EF skills in a math-based context.\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"Bottle Cap Bonanza: Student-designed game connects the court to the classroom\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"Students from an \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-the-femineers\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eall-female engineering afterschool club\\u003c\/a\\u003e in Southern California invented \\u003ci\\u003eBottle Cap Bonanza\\u003c\/i\\u003e\u2014a tabletop game that teaches fraction concepts through shuffleboard-style play using everyday materials like bottle caps and a poster board. Recognizing the value of this student-created innovation, the Fraction Ball team integrated it as a core component of their classroom activities, illustrating how co-design can elevate student voice and create more effective approaches to math learning.\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball empowers teachers to engage in student-centered, collaborative learning\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball creates space for interactive, collaborative problem solving where students lead with confidence. When teachers step back and allow students to own the learning on the court\u2014making decisions, collaborating with peers, and discovering mathematical connections\u2014their \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/www.k12dive.com\/news\/students-math-fractions-decimals-play-executive-function-California\/722657\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003einstructional approach\\u003c\/a\\u003e fundamentally shifts. Teachers see new levels of teamwork, sportsmanship, and joy that ripple beyond the court, nourishing academic growth and uniquely human skills. They report that this experience has changed how they think about delivering math instruction in their classroom, inspiring them to bring more student-centered, collaborative practices to other lessons and learning contexts.\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"Playful assessment captures both math and executive function skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"The \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly-video-game-demo\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eFraction Ball \\u0022Exactly\u201d video game\\u003c\/a\\u003e offers educators valuable insights into their students\u2019 learning through a \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003evalidated, playful assessment\\u003c\/a\\u003e of planning skills, assessed within the context of fractions. This stealth assessment gathers data useful to researchers and educators, while avoiding testing burden on students or invoking test anxiety.\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items\":5,\"_text_list_list_items\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items\",\"text_list\":\"\",\"_text_list\":\"field_text_list_text_list\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c4b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/video-demo {\"name\":\"acf\/video-demo\",\"data\":{\"video_demo_headline\":\"See Fraction Ball in Action\",\"_video_demo_headline\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_headline\",\"video_demo_subheading\":\"\",\"_video_demo_subheading\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_subheading\",\"video_demo_video_url\":\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=6ps6nfIA738\",\"_video_demo_video_url\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_url\",\"video_demo_video_cover\":1625,\"_video_demo_video_cover\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_cover\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"Learn More\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.gojuego.com\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button_style\",\"video_demo_buttons\":1,\"_video_demo_buttons\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons\",\"video_demo\":\"\",\"_video_demo\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c94\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/testimonials {\"name\":\"acf\/testimonials\",\"data\":{\"testimonials_headline\":\"VOICES FROM THE EF+MATH COMMUNITY\",\"_testimonials_headline\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_headline\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball creates joyful, physically active learning environments where conceptual understanding of fractions and executive function skills are developed together. Compared to other movement-based math programs, Fraction Ball distinguishes itself through its intentional integration of rigorous mathematical learning with kinesthetic engagement. It excels at fostering student collaboration, agency, and conceptual thinking.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"Rennie Center for Education Research and Policy, EF+Math Competitive Product Analysis\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"\\u0022Being able to engage in Fraction Ball as a teacher made me feel seen and I appreciated that my kids were finally getting seen. Their voices, and my voice, were being elevated in research, and I was excited to learn that the communities that I serve (primarily Black and Brown students) were going to finally make it into research, and have a space in that community of researchers.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"Lourdes Acevedo-Farag, R\\u0026D project team member\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball ran so smoothly this year, based on our suggestions from last year... We felt super valued, and we were able to execute the lessons with fidelity, based on our suggestions. My opinion and my voice mattered.\u201d \",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"Julie Laguna-Caturegli, district partner\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes\":3,\"_testimonials_quotes\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes\",\"testimonials\":\"\",\"_testimonials\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cb6\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/featured-resources {\"name\":\"acf\/featured-resources\",\"data\":{\"featured_resources_headline\":\"Research Highlights\",\"_featured_resources_headline\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_headline\",\"featured_resources_resources\":[\"910\",\"992\",\"1009\",\"1079\"],\"_featured_resources_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_resources\",\"featured_resources\":\"\",\"_featured_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cc9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/staff-teaser-grid {\"name\":\"acf\/staff-teaser-grid\",\"data\":{\"staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"Project Team\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_headline\",\"staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":[\"653\",\"654\",\"655\",\"656\",\"657\",\"659\",\"658\",\"661\",\"660\",\"662\",\"663\",\"664\",\"665\",\"666\",\"667\",\"668\",\"669\",\"670\",\"671\",\"566\",\"672\",\"673\",\"562\",\"674\",\"675\",\"676\"],\"_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01ce9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-row {\"name\":\"acf\/text-row\",\"data\":{\"text_row_headline\":\"Acknowledgments \",\"_text_row_headline\":\"field_text_row_text_row_headline\",\"text_row_subheading\":\"\",\"_text_row_subheading\":\"field_text_row_text_row_subheading\",\"text_row_content\":\"Fraction Ball thrives because of the educators, students, administrators, and community partners who bring playful math learning to life. We are especially grateful to the Santa Ana Unified School District, El Rancho Unified School District, Lynwood Unified School District, and El Sol Academy\u2014the community where Fraction Ball first took shape. Their commitment to joyful, equitable math learning continues to guide and inspire the work.\\r\\n\\r\\nWe also gratefully acknowledge the leadership of the University of California, Irvine, in partnership with Juego!.\",\"_text_row_content\":\"field_text_row_text_row_content\",\"text_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_text_row_buttons\":\"field_text_row_text_row_buttons\",\"text_row_alignment\":\"left\",\"_text_row_alignment\":\"field_text_row_text_row_alignment\",\"text_row\":\"\",\"_text_row\":\"field_text_row_text_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d09\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/full-width-cta {\"name\":\"acf\/full-width-cta\",\"data\":{\"full_width_cta_headline\":\"Explore Our R\\u0026D Projects\",\"_full_width_cta_headline\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_headline\",\"full_width_cta_subheading\":\"The EF+Math portfolio of R\\u0026D projects developed innovative math learning products and advanced research on mathematics learning, executive function skills, and equitable learning experiences using inclusive R\\u0026D methods.\",\"_full_width_cta_subheading\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_subheading\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"View All R\\u0026D Projects\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/projects\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button_style\",\"full_width_cta_buttons\":1,\"_full_width_cta_buttons\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons\",\"full_width_cta\":\"\",\"_full_width_cta\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d26\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","description":"","objectType":"Project","project-type":[{"name":"Evaluation Study","slug":"evaluation-study","term_taxonomy_id":29,"taxonomy":"project-type"},{"name":"Product","slug":"product","term_taxonomy_id":28,"taxonomy":"project-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:03:13","attachment":{"ID":812,"src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg","img":"<img width=\"1280\" height=\"1091\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg 1280w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-300x256.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1024x873.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-768x655.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-320x273.jpeg 320w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-640x546.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed.jpeg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/>"},"meta":[]}]}}},{"ID":673,"title":"Siling Guo","altTitle":"Siling Guo","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/staff\/siling-guo\/","slug":"siling-guo","content":"","description":"","objectType":"Staff","staff-type":[{"name":"R&amp;D Project Teams","slug":"rd-project-teams","term_taxonomy_id":8,"taxonomy":"staff-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:38:06","attachment":{"ID":"32","src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png","img":"<img width=\"612\" height=\"612\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png 612w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-320x320.png 320w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px\" \/>"},"meta":{"staff_metadata":{"name":"Siling Guo","role":"Graduate Student Researcher","image":false,"social_links":{"linkedin":"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/siling-guo\/","facebook":"","x_twitter":"","email":"SilingG1@uci.edu"},"intro_text":"Siling Guo is a Graduate Student Researcher at the University of California, Irvine.","bio":"<p>Siling Guo is a Ph.D. candidate in the School of Education at the University of California, Irvine, specializing in Human Development in Context. Her research examines how cognitive and social-emotional skills develop and interact over time, using longitudinal modeling, simulation methods, and randomized intervention studies. As part of the Fraction Ball project, she contributes to the design and evaluation of play-based learning activities aimed at improving students\u2019 rational number skills and math attitudes.<\/p>\n","projects":[{"ID":519,"title":"Fraction Ball","altTitle":"Fraction Ball","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/project\/fraction-ball\/","slug":"fraction-ball","content":"<!-- wp:acf\/feature-row {\"name\":\"acf\/feature-row\",\"data\":{\"feature_row_headline\":\"Project Approach\",\"_feature_row_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_headline\",\"feature_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball\u2019s approach weaves together math, executive function skills, and equity to help students deepen their understanding of rational numbers through outdoor games and classroom activities. \",\"_feature_row_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_subheading\",\"feature_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_feature_row_buttons\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_buttons\",\"feature_row_card_type\":\"category_card\",\"_feature_row_card_type\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_card_type\",\"feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"Math.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"Mathematics\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"Playful embodied cognition approach to rational number understanding in grades 4\u20135, including fraction magnitude, equivalence, addition\/subtraction, and conversions.\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"Executive-Function.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"Executive Function Skills\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eOpportunities to adaptively monitor, plan, update, and shift thinking within reasoning about rational numbers in basketball games and strategies.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_2_icon\":\"Equity.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_2_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_2_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_2_headline\":\"Equitable Learning Experiences\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eImproving math-related emotions and teamwork through collaborative learning. Team roles provide opportunities to participate in a variety of ways, ensuring that all students, including multilingual learners, can be involved.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards\":3,\"_feature_row_cards\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards\",\"feature_row_padding\":\"both\",\"_feature_row_padding\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_padding\",\"feature_row\":\"\",\"_feature_row\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb0188b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/stat-row {\"name\":\"acf\/stat-row\",\"data\":{\"stat_row_headline\":\"Project Impact \",\"_stat_row_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_headline\",\"stat_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball has produced measurable impact in classrooms, reaching thousands of students and educators, while contributing research findings to advance math education.\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"4,400\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"students reached through Fraction Ball\u2019s work with the EF+Math program\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"23\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"school partners involved in research, development, co-design, and evaluation \\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"45+\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"publications and resources disseminated with Fraction Ball\u2019s learnings\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container\":3,\"_stat_row_stat_container\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container\",\"stat_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_stat_row_buttons\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_buttons\",\"stat_row_background_image\":1414,\"_stat_row_background_image\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_background_image\",\"stat_row\":\"\",\"_stat_row\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb018de\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-list {\"name\":\"acf\/text-list\",\"data\":{\"text_list_headline\":\"Key Insights and Innovations \",\"_text_list_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"Physical movement makes learning fractions collaborative and joyful\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/brilliantfuture.uci.edu\/fraction-ball-math-game-spreads-with-help-of-philanthropy\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003ereimagines the schoolyard\\u003c\/a\\u003e as a place for learning by overlaying fraction and decimal markings onto an existing basketball court that becomes the basis for Fraction Ball\u2019s court-based games. The traditional 3-point arc becomes 1 point, while smaller arcs represent fractional points. A number line tracks the score, allowing students to visualize magnitude and practice converting between fractions and decimals as they play. This embodied learning approach\u2014where physical movement connects directly to mathematical concepts\u2014decreases math anxiety while building rational number understanding, creating an environment for students where math can be collaborative and joyful.\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball leads to positive impacts on  fraction learning and contextualized EF skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"Findings from across two independent evaluation studies were consistent in showing that Fraction Ball had statistically significant, positive impacts on measures of fraction learning and contextualized EF skills. Notably, \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/osf.io\/najd6\/files\/mf7n9\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eevaluation study findings from 2024-25\\u003c\/a\\u003e showed that students who used Fraction Ball performed significantly better on an overall assessment of fraction learning and improved by more than 12-percentile-points on fractions-to-decimals conversion items, when compared to students who did not use Fraction Ball. Across both studies, students who used Fraction Ball also demonstrated stronger planning skills on a measure of EF skills in a math-based context.\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"Bottle Cap Bonanza: Student-designed game connects the court to the classroom\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"Students from an \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-the-femineers\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eall-female engineering afterschool club\\u003c\/a\\u003e in Southern California invented \\u003ci\\u003eBottle Cap Bonanza\\u003c\/i\\u003e\u2014a tabletop game that teaches fraction concepts through shuffleboard-style play using everyday materials like bottle caps and a poster board. Recognizing the value of this student-created innovation, the Fraction Ball team integrated it as a core component of their classroom activities, illustrating how co-design can elevate student voice and create more effective approaches to math learning.\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball empowers teachers to engage in student-centered, collaborative learning\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball creates space for interactive, collaborative problem solving where students lead with confidence. When teachers step back and allow students to own the learning on the court\u2014making decisions, collaborating with peers, and discovering mathematical connections\u2014their \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/www.k12dive.com\/news\/students-math-fractions-decimals-play-executive-function-California\/722657\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003einstructional approach\\u003c\/a\\u003e fundamentally shifts. Teachers see new levels of teamwork, sportsmanship, and joy that ripple beyond the court, nourishing academic growth and uniquely human skills. They report that this experience has changed how they think about delivering math instruction in their classroom, inspiring them to bring more student-centered, collaborative practices to other lessons and learning contexts.\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"Playful assessment captures both math and executive function skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"The \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly-video-game-demo\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eFraction Ball \\u0022Exactly\u201d video game\\u003c\/a\\u003e offers educators valuable insights into their students\u2019 learning through a \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003evalidated, playful assessment\\u003c\/a\\u003e of planning skills, assessed within the context of fractions. This stealth assessment gathers data useful to researchers and educators, while avoiding testing burden on students or invoking test anxiety.\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items\":5,\"_text_list_list_items\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items\",\"text_list\":\"\",\"_text_list\":\"field_text_list_text_list\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c4b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/video-demo {\"name\":\"acf\/video-demo\",\"data\":{\"video_demo_headline\":\"See Fraction Ball in Action\",\"_video_demo_headline\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_headline\",\"video_demo_subheading\":\"\",\"_video_demo_subheading\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_subheading\",\"video_demo_video_url\":\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=6ps6nfIA738\",\"_video_demo_video_url\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_url\",\"video_demo_video_cover\":1625,\"_video_demo_video_cover\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_cover\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"Learn More\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.gojuego.com\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button_style\",\"video_demo_buttons\":1,\"_video_demo_buttons\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons\",\"video_demo\":\"\",\"_video_demo\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c94\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/testimonials {\"name\":\"acf\/testimonials\",\"data\":{\"testimonials_headline\":\"VOICES FROM THE EF+MATH COMMUNITY\",\"_testimonials_headline\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_headline\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball creates joyful, physically active learning environments where conceptual understanding of fractions and executive function skills are developed together. Compared to other movement-based math programs, Fraction Ball distinguishes itself through its intentional integration of rigorous mathematical learning with kinesthetic engagement. It excels at fostering student collaboration, agency, and conceptual thinking.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"Rennie Center for Education Research and Policy, EF+Math Competitive Product Analysis\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"\\u0022Being able to engage in Fraction Ball as a teacher made me feel seen and I appreciated that my kids were finally getting seen. Their voices, and my voice, were being elevated in research, and I was excited to learn that the communities that I serve (primarily Black and Brown students) were going to finally make it into research, and have a space in that community of researchers.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"Lourdes Acevedo-Farag, R\\u0026D project team member\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball ran so smoothly this year, based on our suggestions from last year... We felt super valued, and we were able to execute the lessons with fidelity, based on our suggestions. My opinion and my voice mattered.\u201d \",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"Julie Laguna-Caturegli, district partner\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes\":3,\"_testimonials_quotes\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes\",\"testimonials\":\"\",\"_testimonials\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cb6\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/featured-resources {\"name\":\"acf\/featured-resources\",\"data\":{\"featured_resources_headline\":\"Research Highlights\",\"_featured_resources_headline\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_headline\",\"featured_resources_resources\":[\"910\",\"992\",\"1009\",\"1079\"],\"_featured_resources_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_resources\",\"featured_resources\":\"\",\"_featured_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cc9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/staff-teaser-grid {\"name\":\"acf\/staff-teaser-grid\",\"data\":{\"staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"Project Team\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_headline\",\"staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":[\"653\",\"654\",\"655\",\"656\",\"657\",\"659\",\"658\",\"661\",\"660\",\"662\",\"663\",\"664\",\"665\",\"666\",\"667\",\"668\",\"669\",\"670\",\"671\",\"566\",\"672\",\"673\",\"562\",\"674\",\"675\",\"676\"],\"_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01ce9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-row {\"name\":\"acf\/text-row\",\"data\":{\"text_row_headline\":\"Acknowledgments \",\"_text_row_headline\":\"field_text_row_text_row_headline\",\"text_row_subheading\":\"\",\"_text_row_subheading\":\"field_text_row_text_row_subheading\",\"text_row_content\":\"Fraction Ball thrives because of the educators, students, administrators, and community partners who bring playful math learning to life. We are especially grateful to the Santa Ana Unified School District, El Rancho Unified School District, Lynwood Unified School District, and El Sol Academy\u2014the community where Fraction Ball first took shape. Their commitment to joyful, equitable math learning continues to guide and inspire the work.\\r\\n\\r\\nWe also gratefully acknowledge the leadership of the University of California, Irvine, in partnership with Juego!.\",\"_text_row_content\":\"field_text_row_text_row_content\",\"text_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_text_row_buttons\":\"field_text_row_text_row_buttons\",\"text_row_alignment\":\"left\",\"_text_row_alignment\":\"field_text_row_text_row_alignment\",\"text_row\":\"\",\"_text_row\":\"field_text_row_text_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d09\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/full-width-cta {\"name\":\"acf\/full-width-cta\",\"data\":{\"full_width_cta_headline\":\"Explore Our R\\u0026D Projects\",\"_full_width_cta_headline\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_headline\",\"full_width_cta_subheading\":\"The EF+Math portfolio of R\\u0026D projects developed innovative math learning products and advanced research on mathematics learning, executive function skills, and equitable learning experiences using inclusive R\\u0026D methods.\",\"_full_width_cta_subheading\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_subheading\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"View All R\\u0026D Projects\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/projects\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button_style\",\"full_width_cta_buttons\":1,\"_full_width_cta_buttons\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons\",\"full_width_cta\":\"\",\"_full_width_cta\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d26\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","description":"","objectType":"Project","project-type":[{"name":"Evaluation Study","slug":"evaluation-study","term_taxonomy_id":29,"taxonomy":"project-type"},{"name":"Product","slug":"product","term_taxonomy_id":28,"taxonomy":"project-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:03:13","attachment":{"ID":812,"src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg","img":"<img width=\"1280\" height=\"1091\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg 1280w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-300x256.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1024x873.jpeg 1024w, 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21:38:05","attachment":{"ID":"32","src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png","img":"<img width=\"612\" height=\"612\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png 612w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-320x320.png 320w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px\" \/>"},"meta":{"staff_metadata":{"name":"Sofia Guerrero","role":"Educator Leadership Council","image":{"ID":869,"id":869,"title":"b5f1cafa-sofia","filename":"b5f1cafa-sofia.jpg","filesize":21878,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/b5f1cafa-sofia.jpg","link":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/staff\/sofia-guerrero\/b5f1cafa-sofia\/","alt":"","author":"1","description":"","caption":"","name":"b5f1cafa-sofia","status":"inherit","uploaded_to":562,"date":"2025-12-17 19:38:01","modified":"2025-12-17 19:38:01","menu_order":0,"mime_type":"image\/jpeg","type":"image","subtype":"jpeg","icon":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/wp\/wp-includes\/images\/media\/default.png","width":355,"height":355,"sizes":{"thumbnail":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/b5f1cafa-sofia-150x150.jpg","thumbnail-width":150,"thumbnail-height":150,"medium":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/b5f1cafa-sofia-300x300.jpg","medium-width":300,"medium-height":300,"medium_large":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/b5f1cafa-sofia.jpg","medium_large-width":355,"medium_large-height":355,"large":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/b5f1cafa-sofia.jpg","large-width":355,"large-height":355,"1536x1536":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/b5f1cafa-sofia.jpg","1536x1536-width":355,"1536x1536-height":355,"2048x2048":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/b5f1cafa-sofia.jpg","2048x2048-width":355,"2048x2048-height":355,"w320":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/b5f1cafa-sofia-320x320.jpg","w320-width":320,"w320-height":320,"w640":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/b5f1cafa-sofia.jpg","w640-width":355,"w640-height":355,"w1280":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/b5f1cafa-sofia.jpg","w1280-width":355,"w1280-height":355,"w1920":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/b5f1cafa-sofia.jpg","w1920-width":355,"w1920-height":355,"w2560":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/b5f1cafa-sofia.jpg","w2560-width":355,"w2560-height":355,"gform-image-choice-sm":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/b5f1cafa-sofia.jpg","gform-image-choice-sm-width":300,"gform-image-choice-sm-height":300,"gform-image-choice-md":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/b5f1cafa-sofia.jpg","gform-image-choice-md-width":355,"gform-image-choice-md-height":355,"gform-image-choice-lg":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/b5f1cafa-sofia.jpg","gform-image-choice-lg-width":355,"gform-image-choice-lg-height":355}},"social_links":{"linkedin":"","facebook":"","x_twitter":"","email":""},"intro_text":"Sofia Guerrero was a member of the Educator Leadership Council from 2019-2025. ","bio":"<p>Sofia Guerrero is the middle school lead for the Math Instructional Specialists department in her district. Her responsibilities include curriculum development, educational coaching, and the cultivation of innovative math strategies aligned with optimal pedagogical approaches.<\/p>\n<p>Guerrero\u2019s passion for growth led her to participate in a district-wide aspiring leadership program, followed by earning a Master of Arts in education with a specialization in curriculum and instruction, a testament to her commitment to refining and enhancing the educational experience. She also pursued a Personalized Learning and Blended Learning graduate certificate from Texas Tech University, solidifying her expertise in cutting-edge educational methodologies.<\/p>\n<p>Sofia Guerrero\u2019s professional commitments are centered on building teacher capacity to expand student learning and success. From the classroom to district-wide initiatives, she is committed to transforming learning and dedicated to serving students.<\/p>\n","projects":[{"ID":519,"title":"Fraction Ball","altTitle":"Fraction Ball","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/project\/fraction-ball\/","slug":"fraction-ball","content":"<!-- wp:acf\/feature-row {\"name\":\"acf\/feature-row\",\"data\":{\"feature_row_headline\":\"Project Approach\",\"_feature_row_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_headline\",\"feature_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball\u2019s approach weaves together math, executive function skills, and equity to help students deepen their understanding of rational numbers through outdoor games and classroom activities. \",\"_feature_row_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_subheading\",\"feature_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_feature_row_buttons\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_buttons\",\"feature_row_card_type\":\"category_card\",\"_feature_row_card_type\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_card_type\",\"feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"Math.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"Mathematics\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"Playful embodied cognition approach to rational number understanding in grades 4\u20135, including fraction magnitude, equivalence, addition\/subtraction, and conversions.\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"Executive-Function.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"Executive Function Skills\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eOpportunities to adaptively monitor, plan, update, and shift thinking within reasoning about rational numbers in basketball games and strategies.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_2_icon\":\"Equity.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_2_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_2_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_2_headline\":\"Equitable Learning Experiences\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eImproving math-related emotions and teamwork through collaborative learning. Team roles provide opportunities to participate in a variety of ways, ensuring that all students, including multilingual learners, can be involved.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards\":3,\"_feature_row_cards\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards\",\"feature_row_padding\":\"both\",\"_feature_row_padding\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_padding\",\"feature_row\":\"\",\"_feature_row\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb0188b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/stat-row {\"name\":\"acf\/stat-row\",\"data\":{\"stat_row_headline\":\"Project Impact \",\"_stat_row_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_headline\",\"stat_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball has produced measurable impact in classrooms, reaching thousands of students and educators, while contributing research findings to advance math education.\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"4,400\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"students reached through Fraction Ball\u2019s work with the EF+Math program\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"23\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"school partners involved in research, development, co-design, and evaluation \\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"45+\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"publications and resources disseminated with Fraction Ball\u2019s learnings\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container\":3,\"_stat_row_stat_container\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container\",\"stat_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_stat_row_buttons\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_buttons\",\"stat_row_background_image\":1414,\"_stat_row_background_image\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_background_image\",\"stat_row\":\"\",\"_stat_row\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb018de\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-list {\"name\":\"acf\/text-list\",\"data\":{\"text_list_headline\":\"Key Insights and Innovations \",\"_text_list_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"Physical movement makes learning fractions collaborative and joyful\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/brilliantfuture.uci.edu\/fraction-ball-math-game-spreads-with-help-of-philanthropy\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003ereimagines the schoolyard\\u003c\/a\\u003e as a place for learning by overlaying fraction and decimal markings onto an existing basketball court that becomes the basis for Fraction Ball\u2019s court-based games. The traditional 3-point arc becomes 1 point, while smaller arcs represent fractional points. A number line tracks the score, allowing students to visualize magnitude and practice converting between fractions and decimals as they play. This embodied learning approach\u2014where physical movement connects directly to mathematical concepts\u2014decreases math anxiety while building rational number understanding, creating an environment for students where math can be collaborative and joyful.\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball leads to positive impacts on  fraction learning and contextualized EF skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"Findings from across two independent evaluation studies were consistent in showing that Fraction Ball had statistically significant, positive impacts on measures of fraction learning and contextualized EF skills. Notably, \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/osf.io\/najd6\/files\/mf7n9\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eevaluation study findings from 2024-25\\u003c\/a\\u003e showed that students who used Fraction Ball performed significantly better on an overall assessment of fraction learning and improved by more than 12-percentile-points on fractions-to-decimals conversion items, when compared to students who did not use Fraction Ball. Across both studies, students who used Fraction Ball also demonstrated stronger planning skills on a measure of EF skills in a math-based context.\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"Bottle Cap Bonanza: Student-designed game connects the court to the classroom\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"Students from an \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-the-femineers\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eall-female engineering afterschool club\\u003c\/a\\u003e in Southern California invented \\u003ci\\u003eBottle Cap Bonanza\\u003c\/i\\u003e\u2014a tabletop game that teaches fraction concepts through shuffleboard-style play using everyday materials like bottle caps and a poster board. Recognizing the value of this student-created innovation, the Fraction Ball team integrated it as a core component of their classroom activities, illustrating how co-design can elevate student voice and create more effective approaches to math learning.\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball empowers teachers to engage in student-centered, collaborative learning\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball creates space for interactive, collaborative problem solving where students lead with confidence. When teachers step back and allow students to own the learning on the court\u2014making decisions, collaborating with peers, and discovering mathematical connections\u2014their \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/www.k12dive.com\/news\/students-math-fractions-decimals-play-executive-function-California\/722657\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003einstructional approach\\u003c\/a\\u003e fundamentally shifts. Teachers see new levels of teamwork, sportsmanship, and joy that ripple beyond the court, nourishing academic growth and uniquely human skills. They report that this experience has changed how they think about delivering math instruction in their classroom, inspiring them to bring more student-centered, collaborative practices to other lessons and learning contexts.\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"Playful assessment captures both math and executive function skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"The \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly-video-game-demo\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eFraction Ball \\u0022Exactly\u201d video game\\u003c\/a\\u003e offers educators valuable insights into their students\u2019 learning through a \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003evalidated, playful assessment\\u003c\/a\\u003e of planning skills, assessed within the context of fractions. This stealth assessment gathers data useful to researchers and educators, while avoiding testing burden on students or invoking test anxiety.\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items\":5,\"_text_list_list_items\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items\",\"text_list\":\"\",\"_text_list\":\"field_text_list_text_list\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c4b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/video-demo {\"name\":\"acf\/video-demo\",\"data\":{\"video_demo_headline\":\"See Fraction Ball in Action\",\"_video_demo_headline\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_headline\",\"video_demo_subheading\":\"\",\"_video_demo_subheading\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_subheading\",\"video_demo_video_url\":\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=6ps6nfIA738\",\"_video_demo_video_url\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_url\",\"video_demo_video_cover\":1625,\"_video_demo_video_cover\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_cover\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"Learn More\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.gojuego.com\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button_style\",\"video_demo_buttons\":1,\"_video_demo_buttons\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons\",\"video_demo\":\"\",\"_video_demo\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c94\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/testimonials {\"name\":\"acf\/testimonials\",\"data\":{\"testimonials_headline\":\"VOICES FROM THE EF+MATH COMMUNITY\",\"_testimonials_headline\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_headline\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball creates joyful, physically active learning environments where conceptual understanding of fractions and executive function skills are developed together. Compared to other movement-based math programs, Fraction Ball distinguishes itself through its intentional integration of rigorous mathematical learning with kinesthetic engagement. It excels at fostering student collaboration, agency, and conceptual thinking.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"Rennie Center for Education Research and Policy, EF+Math Competitive Product Analysis\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"\\u0022Being able to engage in Fraction Ball as a teacher made me feel seen and I appreciated that my kids were finally getting seen. Their voices, and my voice, were being elevated in research, and I was excited to learn that the communities that I serve (primarily Black and Brown students) were going to finally make it into research, and have a space in that community of researchers.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"Lourdes Acevedo-Farag, R\\u0026D project team member\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball ran so smoothly this year, based on our suggestions from last year... We felt super valued, and we were able to execute the lessons with fidelity, based on our suggestions. My opinion and my voice mattered.\u201d \",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"Julie Laguna-Caturegli, district partner\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes\":3,\"_testimonials_quotes\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes\",\"testimonials\":\"\",\"_testimonials\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cb6\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/featured-resources {\"name\":\"acf\/featured-resources\",\"data\":{\"featured_resources_headline\":\"Research Highlights\",\"_featured_resources_headline\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_headline\",\"featured_resources_resources\":[\"910\",\"992\",\"1009\",\"1079\"],\"_featured_resources_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_resources\",\"featured_resources\":\"\",\"_featured_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cc9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/staff-teaser-grid {\"name\":\"acf\/staff-teaser-grid\",\"data\":{\"staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"Project Team\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_headline\",\"staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":[\"653\",\"654\",\"655\",\"656\",\"657\",\"659\",\"658\",\"661\",\"660\",\"662\",\"663\",\"664\",\"665\",\"666\",\"667\",\"668\",\"669\",\"670\",\"671\",\"566\",\"672\",\"673\",\"562\",\"674\",\"675\",\"676\"],\"_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01ce9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-row {\"name\":\"acf\/text-row\",\"data\":{\"text_row_headline\":\"Acknowledgments \",\"_text_row_headline\":\"field_text_row_text_row_headline\",\"text_row_subheading\":\"\",\"_text_row_subheading\":\"field_text_row_text_row_subheading\",\"text_row_content\":\"Fraction Ball thrives because of the educators, students, administrators, and community partners who bring playful math learning to life. We are especially grateful to the Santa Ana Unified School District, El Rancho Unified School District, Lynwood Unified School District, and El Sol Academy\u2014the community where Fraction Ball first took shape. Their commitment to joyful, equitable math learning continues to guide and inspire the work.\\r\\n\\r\\nWe also gratefully acknowledge the leadership of the University of California, Irvine, in partnership with Juego!.\",\"_text_row_content\":\"field_text_row_text_row_content\",\"text_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_text_row_buttons\":\"field_text_row_text_row_buttons\",\"text_row_alignment\":\"left\",\"_text_row_alignment\":\"field_text_row_text_row_alignment\",\"text_row\":\"\",\"_text_row\":\"field_text_row_text_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d09\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/full-width-cta {\"name\":\"acf\/full-width-cta\",\"data\":{\"full_width_cta_headline\":\"Explore Our R\\u0026D Projects\",\"_full_width_cta_headline\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_headline\",\"full_width_cta_subheading\":\"The EF+Math portfolio of R\\u0026D projects developed innovative math learning products and advanced research on mathematics learning, executive function skills, and equitable learning experiences using inclusive R\\u0026D methods.\",\"_full_width_cta_subheading\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_subheading\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"View All R\\u0026D Projects\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/projects\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button_style\",\"full_width_cta_buttons\":1,\"_full_width_cta_buttons\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons\",\"full_width_cta\":\"\",\"_full_width_cta\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d26\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","description":"","objectType":"Project","project-type":[{"name":"Evaluation Study","slug":"evaluation-study","term_taxonomy_id":29,"taxonomy":"project-type"},{"name":"Product","slug":"product","term_taxonomy_id":28,"taxonomy":"project-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:03:13","attachment":{"ID":812,"src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg","img":"<img width=\"1280\" height=\"1091\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg 1280w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-300x256.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1024x873.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-768x655.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-320x273.jpeg 320w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-640x546.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed.jpeg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/>"},"meta":[]}]}}},{"ID":674,"title":"Vanessa N. Bermudez","altTitle":"Vanessa N. Bermudez","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/staff\/vanessa-n-bermudez\/","slug":"vanessa-n-bermudez","content":"","description":"","objectType":"Staff","staff-type":[{"name":"R&amp;D Project Teams","slug":"rd-project-teams","term_taxonomy_id":8,"taxonomy":"staff-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:38:06","attachment":{"ID":"32","src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png","img":"<img width=\"612\" height=\"612\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png 612w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-320x320.png 320w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px\" \/>"},"meta":{"staff_metadata":{"name":"Vanessa N. Bermudez","role":"Graduate Student Researcher","image":false,"social_links":{"linkedin":"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/vanessa-n-bermudez\/","facebook":"","x_twitter":"","email":"Vanessa.Bermudez@lmu.edu"},"intro_text":"Vanessa N. Bermudez was a Graduate Student Researcher at the University of California, Irvine.","bio":"<p>Vanessa N. Bermudez, Ph.D. is an Assistant Professor of Psychological Science at Loyola Marymount University. She earned her Ph.D. in Education from the University of California, Irvine, with a concentration in Human Development in Context. Her research examines the design and evaluation of playful learning environments across school, home, and community settings to support young children\u2019s early math and science learning. Grounded in culturally sustaining pedagogies, she works to align educational experiences with the cultural practices and strengths of children and families.<\/p>\n<p>Dr. Bermudez partners with families and educators, particularly within Latine communities, to co-create engaging, culturally meaningful learning opportunities that foster early skills and strengthen home\u2013school connections. She also equips educators with strategies to draw on families\u2019 funds of knowledge to enrich math and science instruction. Her earlier work explored bilingual language development, parenting practices, numerical cognition, and caregiver quality of care.<\/p>\n<p>Her research has been published in journals such as Contemporary Educational Psychology, Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology, Early Childhood Research Quarterly, and Theory Into Practice.<\/p>\n","projects":[{"ID":519,"title":"Fraction Ball","altTitle":"Fraction Ball","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/project\/fraction-ball\/","slug":"fraction-ball","content":"<!-- wp:acf\/feature-row {\"name\":\"acf\/feature-row\",\"data\":{\"feature_row_headline\":\"Project Approach\",\"_feature_row_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_headline\",\"feature_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball\u2019s approach weaves together math, executive function skills, and equity to help students deepen their understanding of rational numbers through outdoor games and classroom activities. \",\"_feature_row_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_subheading\",\"feature_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_feature_row_buttons\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_buttons\",\"feature_row_card_type\":\"category_card\",\"_feature_row_card_type\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_card_type\",\"feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"Math.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"Mathematics\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"Playful embodied cognition approach to rational number understanding in grades 4\u20135, including fraction magnitude, equivalence, addition\/subtraction, and conversions.\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"Executive-Function.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"Executive Function Skills\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eOpportunities to adaptively monitor, plan, update, and shift thinking within reasoning about rational numbers in basketball games and strategies.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_2_icon\":\"Equity.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_2_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_2_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_2_headline\":\"Equitable Learning Experiences\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eImproving math-related emotions and teamwork through collaborative learning. Team roles provide opportunities to participate in a variety of ways, ensuring that all students, including multilingual learners, can be involved.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards\":3,\"_feature_row_cards\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards\",\"feature_row_padding\":\"both\",\"_feature_row_padding\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_padding\",\"feature_row\":\"\",\"_feature_row\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb0188b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/stat-row {\"name\":\"acf\/stat-row\",\"data\":{\"stat_row_headline\":\"Project Impact \",\"_stat_row_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_headline\",\"stat_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball has produced measurable impact in classrooms, reaching thousands of students and educators, while contributing research findings to advance math education.\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"4,400\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"students reached through Fraction Ball\u2019s work with the EF+Math program\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"23\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"school partners involved in research, development, co-design, and evaluation \\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"45+\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"publications and resources disseminated with Fraction Ball\u2019s learnings\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container\":3,\"_stat_row_stat_container\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container\",\"stat_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_stat_row_buttons\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_buttons\",\"stat_row_background_image\":1414,\"_stat_row_background_image\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_background_image\",\"stat_row\":\"\",\"_stat_row\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb018de\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-list {\"name\":\"acf\/text-list\",\"data\":{\"text_list_headline\":\"Key Insights and Innovations \",\"_text_list_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"Physical movement makes learning fractions collaborative and joyful\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/brilliantfuture.uci.edu\/fraction-ball-math-game-spreads-with-help-of-philanthropy\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003ereimagines the schoolyard\\u003c\/a\\u003e as a place for learning by overlaying fraction and decimal markings onto an existing basketball court that becomes the basis for Fraction Ball\u2019s court-based games. The traditional 3-point arc becomes 1 point, while smaller arcs represent fractional points. A number line tracks the score, allowing students to visualize magnitude and practice converting between fractions and decimals as they play. This embodied learning approach\u2014where physical movement connects directly to mathematical concepts\u2014decreases math anxiety while building rational number understanding, creating an environment for students where math can be collaborative and joyful.\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball leads to positive impacts on  fraction learning and contextualized EF skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"Findings from across two independent evaluation studies were consistent in showing that Fraction Ball had statistically significant, positive impacts on measures of fraction learning and contextualized EF skills. Notably, \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/osf.io\/najd6\/files\/mf7n9\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eevaluation study findings from 2024-25\\u003c\/a\\u003e showed that students who used Fraction Ball performed significantly better on an overall assessment of fraction learning and improved by more than 12-percentile-points on fractions-to-decimals conversion items, when compared to students who did not use Fraction Ball. Across both studies, students who used Fraction Ball also demonstrated stronger planning skills on a measure of EF skills in a math-based context.\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"Bottle Cap Bonanza: Student-designed game connects the court to the classroom\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"Students from an \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-the-femineers\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eall-female engineering afterschool club\\u003c\/a\\u003e in Southern California invented \\u003ci\\u003eBottle Cap Bonanza\\u003c\/i\\u003e\u2014a tabletop game that teaches fraction concepts through shuffleboard-style play using everyday materials like bottle caps and a poster board. Recognizing the value of this student-created innovation, the Fraction Ball team integrated it as a core component of their classroom activities, illustrating how co-design can elevate student voice and create more effective approaches to math learning.\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball empowers teachers to engage in student-centered, collaborative learning\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball creates space for interactive, collaborative problem solving where students lead with confidence. When teachers step back and allow students to own the learning on the court\u2014making decisions, collaborating with peers, and discovering mathematical connections\u2014their \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/www.k12dive.com\/news\/students-math-fractions-decimals-play-executive-function-California\/722657\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003einstructional approach\\u003c\/a\\u003e fundamentally shifts. Teachers see new levels of teamwork, sportsmanship, and joy that ripple beyond the court, nourishing academic growth and uniquely human skills. They report that this experience has changed how they think about delivering math instruction in their classroom, inspiring them to bring more student-centered, collaborative practices to other lessons and learning contexts.\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"Playful assessment captures both math and executive function skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"The \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly-video-game-demo\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eFraction Ball \\u0022Exactly\u201d video game\\u003c\/a\\u003e offers educators valuable insights into their students\u2019 learning through a \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003evalidated, playful assessment\\u003c\/a\\u003e of planning skills, assessed within the context of fractions. This stealth assessment gathers data useful to researchers and educators, while avoiding testing burden on students or invoking test anxiety.\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items\":5,\"_text_list_list_items\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items\",\"text_list\":\"\",\"_text_list\":\"field_text_list_text_list\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c4b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/video-demo {\"name\":\"acf\/video-demo\",\"data\":{\"video_demo_headline\":\"See Fraction Ball in Action\",\"_video_demo_headline\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_headline\",\"video_demo_subheading\":\"\",\"_video_demo_subheading\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_subheading\",\"video_demo_video_url\":\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=6ps6nfIA738\",\"_video_demo_video_url\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_url\",\"video_demo_video_cover\":1625,\"_video_demo_video_cover\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_cover\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"Learn More\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.gojuego.com\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button_style\",\"video_demo_buttons\":1,\"_video_demo_buttons\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons\",\"video_demo\":\"\",\"_video_demo\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c94\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/testimonials {\"name\":\"acf\/testimonials\",\"data\":{\"testimonials_headline\":\"VOICES FROM THE EF+MATH COMMUNITY\",\"_testimonials_headline\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_headline\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball creates joyful, physically active learning environments where conceptual understanding of fractions and executive function skills are developed together. Compared to other movement-based math programs, Fraction Ball distinguishes itself through its intentional integration of rigorous mathematical learning with kinesthetic engagement. It excels at fostering student collaboration, agency, and conceptual thinking.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"Rennie Center for Education Research and Policy, EF+Math Competitive Product Analysis\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"\\u0022Being able to engage in Fraction Ball as a teacher made me feel seen and I appreciated that my kids were finally getting seen. Their voices, and my voice, were being elevated in research, and I was excited to learn that the communities that I serve (primarily Black and Brown students) were going to finally make it into research, and have a space in that community of researchers.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"Lourdes Acevedo-Farag, R\\u0026D project team member\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball ran so smoothly this year, based on our suggestions from last year... We felt super valued, and we were able to execute the lessons with fidelity, based on our suggestions. My opinion and my voice mattered.\u201d \",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"Julie Laguna-Caturegli, district partner\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes\":3,\"_testimonials_quotes\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes\",\"testimonials\":\"\",\"_testimonials\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cb6\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/featured-resources {\"name\":\"acf\/featured-resources\",\"data\":{\"featured_resources_headline\":\"Research Highlights\",\"_featured_resources_headline\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_headline\",\"featured_resources_resources\":[\"910\",\"992\",\"1009\",\"1079\"],\"_featured_resources_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_resources\",\"featured_resources\":\"\",\"_featured_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cc9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/staff-teaser-grid {\"name\":\"acf\/staff-teaser-grid\",\"data\":{\"staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"Project Team\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_headline\",\"staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":[\"653\",\"654\",\"655\",\"656\",\"657\",\"659\",\"658\",\"661\",\"660\",\"662\",\"663\",\"664\",\"665\",\"666\",\"667\",\"668\",\"669\",\"670\",\"671\",\"566\",\"672\",\"673\",\"562\",\"674\",\"675\",\"676\"],\"_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01ce9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-row {\"name\":\"acf\/text-row\",\"data\":{\"text_row_headline\":\"Acknowledgments \",\"_text_row_headline\":\"field_text_row_text_row_headline\",\"text_row_subheading\":\"\",\"_text_row_subheading\":\"field_text_row_text_row_subheading\",\"text_row_content\":\"Fraction Ball thrives because of the educators, students, administrators, and community partners who bring playful math learning to life. We are especially grateful to the Santa Ana Unified School District, El Rancho Unified School District, Lynwood Unified School District, and El Sol Academy\u2014the community where Fraction Ball first took shape. Their commitment to joyful, equitable math learning continues to guide and inspire the work.\\r\\n\\r\\nWe also gratefully acknowledge the leadership of the University of California, Irvine, in partnership with Juego!.\",\"_text_row_content\":\"field_text_row_text_row_content\",\"text_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_text_row_buttons\":\"field_text_row_text_row_buttons\",\"text_row_alignment\":\"left\",\"_text_row_alignment\":\"field_text_row_text_row_alignment\",\"text_row\":\"\",\"_text_row\":\"field_text_row_text_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d09\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/full-width-cta {\"name\":\"acf\/full-width-cta\",\"data\":{\"full_width_cta_headline\":\"Explore Our R\\u0026D Projects\",\"_full_width_cta_headline\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_headline\",\"full_width_cta_subheading\":\"The EF+Math portfolio of R\\u0026D projects developed innovative math learning products and advanced research on mathematics learning, executive function skills, and equitable learning experiences using inclusive R\\u0026D methods.\",\"_full_width_cta_subheading\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_subheading\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"View All R\\u0026D Projects\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/projects\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button_style\",\"full_width_cta_buttons\":1,\"_full_width_cta_buttons\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons\",\"full_width_cta\":\"\",\"_full_width_cta\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d26\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","description":"","objectType":"Project","project-type":[{"name":"Evaluation Study","slug":"evaluation-study","term_taxonomy_id":29,"taxonomy":"project-type"},{"name":"Product","slug":"product","term_taxonomy_id":28,"taxonomy":"project-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:03:13","attachment":{"ID":812,"src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg","img":"<img width=\"1280\" height=\"1091\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg 1280w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-300x256.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1024x873.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-768x655.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-320x273.jpeg 320w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-640x546.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed.jpeg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/>"},"meta":[]}]}}},{"ID":675,"title":"Xiangqian Yu","altTitle":"Xiangqian Yu","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/staff\/xiangqian-yu\/","slug":"xiangqian-yu","content":"","description":"","objectType":"Staff","staff-type":[{"name":"R&amp;D Project Teams","slug":"rd-project-teams","term_taxonomy_id":8,"taxonomy":"staff-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:38:06","attachment":{"ID":"32","src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png","img":"<img width=\"612\" height=\"612\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png 612w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-320x320.png 320w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px\" \/>"},"meta":{"staff_metadata":{"name":"Xiangqian Yu","role":"Research Assistant","image":false,"social_links":{"linkedin":"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/xiangqiany\/","facebook":"","x_twitter":"","email":""},"intro_text":"Xiangqian Yu was a Research Assistant at the University of California, Irvine.","bio":"","projects":[{"ID":519,"title":"Fraction Ball","altTitle":"Fraction Ball","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/project\/fraction-ball\/","slug":"fraction-ball","content":"<!-- wp:acf\/feature-row {\"name\":\"acf\/feature-row\",\"data\":{\"feature_row_headline\":\"Project Approach\",\"_feature_row_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_headline\",\"feature_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball\u2019s approach weaves together math, executive function skills, and equity to help students deepen their understanding of rational numbers through outdoor games and classroom activities. \",\"_feature_row_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_subheading\",\"feature_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_feature_row_buttons\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_buttons\",\"feature_row_card_type\":\"category_card\",\"_feature_row_card_type\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_card_type\",\"feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"Math.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"Mathematics\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"Playful embodied cognition approach to rational number understanding in grades 4\u20135, including fraction magnitude, equivalence, addition\/subtraction, and conversions.\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"Executive-Function.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"Executive Function Skills\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eOpportunities to adaptively monitor, plan, update, and shift thinking within reasoning about rational numbers in basketball games and 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Team roles provide opportunities to participate in a variety of ways, ensuring that all students, including multilingual learners, can be involved.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards\":3,\"_feature_row_cards\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards\",\"feature_row_padding\":\"both\",\"_feature_row_padding\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_padding\",\"feature_row\":\"\",\"_feature_row\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb0188b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/stat-row {\"name\":\"acf\/stat-row\",\"data\":{\"stat_row_headline\":\"Project Impact \",\"_stat_row_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_headline\",\"stat_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball has produced measurable impact in classrooms, reaching thousands of students and educators, while contributing research findings to advance math education.\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"4,400\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"students reached through Fraction Ball\u2019s work with the EF+Math program\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"23\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"school partners involved in research, development, co-design, and evaluation \\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"45+\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"publications and resources disseminated with Fraction Ball\u2019s learnings\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container\":3,\"_stat_row_stat_container\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container\",\"stat_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_stat_row_buttons\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_buttons\",\"stat_row_background_image\":1414,\"_stat_row_background_image\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_background_image\",\"stat_row\":\"\",\"_stat_row\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb018de\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-list {\"name\":\"acf\/text-list\",\"data\":{\"text_list_headline\":\"Key Insights and Innovations \",\"_text_list_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"Physical movement makes learning fractions collaborative and joyful\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/brilliantfuture.uci.edu\/fraction-ball-math-game-spreads-with-help-of-philanthropy\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003ereimagines the schoolyard\\u003c\/a\\u003e as a place for learning by overlaying fraction and decimal markings onto an existing basketball court that becomes the basis for Fraction Ball\u2019s court-based games. The traditional 3-point arc becomes 1 point, while smaller arcs represent fractional points. A number line tracks the score, allowing students to visualize magnitude and practice converting between fractions and decimals as they play. This embodied learning approach\u2014where physical movement connects directly to mathematical concepts\u2014decreases math anxiety while building rational number understanding, creating an environment for students where math can be collaborative and joyful.\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball leads to positive impacts on  fraction learning and contextualized EF skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"Findings from across two independent evaluation studies were consistent in showing that Fraction Ball had statistically significant, positive impacts on measures of fraction learning and contextualized EF skills. Notably, \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/osf.io\/najd6\/files\/mf7n9\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eevaluation study findings from 2024-25\\u003c\/a\\u003e showed that students who used Fraction Ball performed significantly better on an overall assessment of fraction learning and improved by more than 12-percentile-points on fractions-to-decimals conversion items, when compared to students who did not use Fraction Ball. Across both studies, students who used Fraction Ball also demonstrated stronger planning skills on a measure of EF skills in a math-based context.\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"Bottle Cap Bonanza: Student-designed game connects the court to the classroom\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"Students from an \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-the-femineers\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eall-female engineering afterschool club\\u003c\/a\\u003e in Southern California invented \\u003ci\\u003eBottle Cap Bonanza\\u003c\/i\\u003e\u2014a tabletop game that teaches fraction concepts through shuffleboard-style play using everyday materials like bottle caps and a poster board. Recognizing the value of this student-created innovation, the Fraction Ball team integrated it as a core component of their classroom activities, illustrating how co-design can elevate student voice and create more effective approaches to math learning.\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball empowers teachers to engage in student-centered, collaborative learning\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball creates space for interactive, collaborative problem solving where students lead with confidence. When teachers step back and allow students to own the learning on the court\u2014making decisions, collaborating with peers, and discovering mathematical connections\u2014their \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/www.k12dive.com\/news\/students-math-fractions-decimals-play-executive-function-California\/722657\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003einstructional approach\\u003c\/a\\u003e fundamentally shifts. Teachers see new levels of teamwork, sportsmanship, and joy that ripple beyond the court, nourishing academic growth and uniquely human skills. They report that this experience has changed how they think about delivering math instruction in their classroom, inspiring them to bring more student-centered, collaborative practices to other lessons and learning contexts.\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"Playful assessment captures both math and executive function skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"The \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly-video-game-demo\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eFraction Ball \\u0022Exactly\u201d video game\\u003c\/a\\u003e offers educators valuable insights into their students\u2019 learning through a \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003evalidated, playful assessment\\u003c\/a\\u003e of planning skills, assessed within the context of fractions. This stealth assessment gathers data useful to researchers and educators, while avoiding testing burden on students or invoking test anxiety.\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items\":5,\"_text_list_list_items\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items\",\"text_list\":\"\",\"_text_list\":\"field_text_list_text_list\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c4b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/video-demo {\"name\":\"acf\/video-demo\",\"data\":{\"video_demo_headline\":\"See Fraction Ball in Action\",\"_video_demo_headline\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_headline\",\"video_demo_subheading\":\"\",\"_video_demo_subheading\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_subheading\",\"video_demo_video_url\":\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=6ps6nfIA738\",\"_video_demo_video_url\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_url\",\"video_demo_video_cover\":1625,\"_video_demo_video_cover\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_video_cover\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"Learn More\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.gojuego.com\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button\",\"video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_video_demo_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons_button_style\",\"video_demo_buttons\":1,\"_video_demo_buttons\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo_buttons\",\"video_demo\":\"\",\"_video_demo\":\"field_video_demo_video_demo\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01c94\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/testimonials {\"name\":\"acf\/testimonials\",\"data\":{\"testimonials_headline\":\"VOICES FROM THE EF+MATH COMMUNITY\",\"_testimonials_headline\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_headline\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball creates joyful, physically active learning environments where conceptual understanding of fractions and executive function skills are developed together. Compared to other movement-based math programs, Fraction Ball distinguishes itself through its intentional integration of rigorous mathematical learning with kinesthetic engagement. It excels at fostering student collaboration, agency, and conceptual thinking.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"Rennie Center for Education Research and Policy, EF+Math Competitive Product Analysis\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"\\u0022Being able to engage in Fraction Ball as a teacher made me feel seen and I appreciated that my kids were finally getting seen. Their voices, and my voice, were being elevated in research, and I was excited to learn that the communities that I serve (primarily Black and Brown students) were going to finally make it into research, and have a space in that community of researchers.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"Lourdes Acevedo-Farag, R\\u0026D project team member\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball ran so smoothly this year, based on our suggestions from last year... We felt super valued, and we were able to execute the lessons with fidelity, based on our suggestions. My opinion and my voice mattered.\u201d \",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"Julie Laguna-Caturegli, district partner\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes\":3,\"_testimonials_quotes\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes\",\"testimonials\":\"\",\"_testimonials\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cb6\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/featured-resources {\"name\":\"acf\/featured-resources\",\"data\":{\"featured_resources_headline\":\"Research Highlights\",\"_featured_resources_headline\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_headline\",\"featured_resources_resources\":[\"910\",\"992\",\"1009\",\"1079\"],\"_featured_resources_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_resources\",\"featured_resources\":\"\",\"_featured_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cc9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/staff-teaser-grid {\"name\":\"acf\/staff-teaser-grid\",\"data\":{\"staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"Project Team\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_headline\",\"staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":[\"653\",\"654\",\"655\",\"656\",\"657\",\"659\",\"658\",\"661\",\"660\",\"662\",\"663\",\"664\",\"665\",\"666\",\"667\",\"668\",\"669\",\"670\",\"671\",\"566\",\"672\",\"673\",\"562\",\"674\",\"675\",\"676\"],\"_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01ce9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-row {\"name\":\"acf\/text-row\",\"data\":{\"text_row_headline\":\"Acknowledgments \",\"_text_row_headline\":\"field_text_row_text_row_headline\",\"text_row_subheading\":\"\",\"_text_row_subheading\":\"field_text_row_text_row_subheading\",\"text_row_content\":\"Fraction Ball thrives because of the educators, students, administrators, and community partners who bring playful math learning to life. We are especially grateful to the Santa Ana Unified School District, El Rancho Unified School District, Lynwood Unified School District, and El Sol Academy\u2014the community where Fraction Ball first took shape. Their commitment to joyful, equitable math learning continues to guide and inspire the work.\\r\\n\\r\\nWe also gratefully acknowledge the leadership of the University of California, Irvine, in partnership with Juego!.\",\"_text_row_content\":\"field_text_row_text_row_content\",\"text_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_text_row_buttons\":\"field_text_row_text_row_buttons\",\"text_row_alignment\":\"left\",\"_text_row_alignment\":\"field_text_row_text_row_alignment\",\"text_row\":\"\",\"_text_row\":\"field_text_row_text_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d09\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/full-width-cta {\"name\":\"acf\/full-width-cta\",\"data\":{\"full_width_cta_headline\":\"Explore Our R\\u0026D Projects\",\"_full_width_cta_headline\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_headline\",\"full_width_cta_subheading\":\"The EF+Math portfolio of R\\u0026D projects developed innovative math learning products and advanced research on mathematics learning, executive function skills, and equitable learning experiences using inclusive R\\u0026D methods.\",\"_full_width_cta_subheading\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_subheading\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"View All R\\u0026D Projects\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/projects\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button_style\",\"full_width_cta_buttons\":1,\"_full_width_cta_buttons\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons\",\"full_width_cta\":\"\",\"_full_width_cta\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d26\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","description":"","objectType":"Project","project-type":[{"name":"Evaluation Study","slug":"evaluation-study","term_taxonomy_id":29,"taxonomy":"project-type"},{"name":"Product","slug":"product","term_taxonomy_id":28,"taxonomy":"project-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:03:13","attachment":{"ID":812,"src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg","img":"<img width=\"1280\" height=\"1091\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg 1280w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-300x256.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1024x873.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-768x655.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-320x273.jpeg 320w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-640x546.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed.jpeg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/>"},"meta":[]}]}}},{"ID":676,"title":"Yoori Kim","altTitle":"Yoori Kim","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/staff\/yoori-kim\/","slug":"yoori-kim","content":"","description":"","objectType":"Staff","staff-type":[{"name":"R&amp;D Project Teams","slug":"rd-project-teams","term_taxonomy_id":8,"taxonomy":"staff-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:38:06","attachment":{"ID":"32","src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png","img":"<img width=\"612\" height=\"612\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person.png 612w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2023\/09\/placeholder-person-320x320.png 320w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px\" \/>"},"meta":{"staff_metadata":{"name":"Yoori Kim","role":"Research Assistant","image":false,"social_links":{"linkedin":"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/yoori-k-598858156\/","facebook":"","x_twitter":"","email":"yoorik2@uci.edu"},"intro_text":"Yoori Kim is a Research Assistant at the University of California, Irvine.","bio":"","projects":[{"ID":519,"title":"Fraction Ball","altTitle":"Fraction Ball","subtitle":null,"url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/project\/fraction-ball\/","slug":"fraction-ball","content":"<!-- wp:acf\/feature-row {\"name\":\"acf\/feature-row\",\"data\":{\"feature_row_headline\":\"Project Approach\",\"_feature_row_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_headline\",\"feature_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball\u2019s approach weaves together math, executive function skills, and equity to help students deepen their understanding of rational numbers through outdoor games and classroom activities. \",\"_feature_row_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_subheading\",\"feature_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_feature_row_buttons\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_buttons\",\"feature_row_card_type\":\"category_card\",\"_feature_row_card_type\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_card_type\",\"feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"Math.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"Mathematics\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"Playful embodied cognition approach to rational number understanding in grades 4\u20135, including fraction magnitude, equivalence, addition\/subtraction, and conversions.\",\"_feature_row_cards_0_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"Executive-Function.svg\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_icon\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_icon\",\"feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_link\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_link\",\"feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"#e2ebf7\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_card_color\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_card_color\",\"feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"Executive Function Skills\",\"_feature_row_cards_1_headline\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_headline\",\"feature_row_cards_1_subheading\":\"\\u003cspan style=\\u0022font-weight: 400;\\u0022\\u003eOpportunities to adaptively monitor, plan, update, and shift thinking within reasoning about rational numbers in basketball games and 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Team roles provide opportunities to participate in a variety of ways, ensuring that all students, including multilingual learners, can be involved.\\u003c\/span\\u003e\",\"_feature_row_cards_2_subheading\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards_subheading\",\"feature_row_cards\":3,\"_feature_row_cards\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_cards\",\"feature_row_padding\":\"both\",\"_feature_row_padding\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row_padding\",\"feature_row\":\"\",\"_feature_row\":\"field_feature_row_feature_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb0188b\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/stat-row {\"name\":\"acf\/stat-row\",\"data\":{\"stat_row_headline\":\"Project Impact \",\"_stat_row_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_headline\",\"stat_row_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball has produced measurable impact in classrooms, reaching thousands of students and educators, while contributing research findings to advance math education.\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"4,400\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"students reached through Fraction Ball\u2019s work with the EF+Math program\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_0_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"23\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"school partners involved in research, development, co-design, and evaluation \\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_1_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"45+\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_headline\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_headline\",\"stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"publications and resources disseminated with Fraction Ball\u2019s learnings\\r\\n\",\"_stat_row_stat_container_2_stat_subheading\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container_stat_subheading\",\"stat_row_stat_container\":3,\"_stat_row_stat_container\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_stat_container\",\"stat_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_stat_row_buttons\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_buttons\",\"stat_row_background_image\":1414,\"_stat_row_background_image\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row_background_image\",\"stat_row\":\"\",\"_stat_row\":\"field_stat_row_stat_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb018de\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-list {\"name\":\"acf\/text-list\",\"data\":{\"text_list_headline\":\"Key Insights and Innovations \",\"_text_list_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"Physical movement makes learning fractions collaborative and joyful\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/brilliantfuture.uci.edu\/fraction-ball-math-game-spreads-with-help-of-philanthropy\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003ereimagines the schoolyard\\u003c\/a\\u003e as a place for learning by overlaying fraction and decimal markings onto an existing basketball court that becomes the basis for Fraction Ball\u2019s court-based games. The traditional 3-point arc becomes 1 point, while smaller arcs represent fractional points. A number line tracks the score, allowing students to visualize magnitude and practice converting between fractions and decimals as they play. This embodied learning approach\u2014where physical movement connects directly to mathematical concepts\u2014decreases math anxiety while building rational number understanding, creating an environment for students where math can be collaborative and joyful.\",\"_text_list_list_items_0_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball leads to positive impacts on  fraction learning and contextualized EF skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"Findings from across two independent evaluation studies were consistent in showing that Fraction Ball had statistically significant, positive impacts on measures of fraction learning and contextualized EF skills. Notably, \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/osf.io\/najd6\/files\/mf7n9\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eevaluation study findings from 2024-25\\u003c\/a\\u003e showed that students who used Fraction Ball performed significantly better on an overall assessment of fraction learning and improved by more than 12-percentile-points on fractions-to-decimals conversion items, when compared to students who did not use Fraction Ball. Across both studies, students who used Fraction Ball also demonstrated stronger planning skills on a measure of EF skills in a math-based context.\",\"_text_list_list_items_1_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"Bottle Cap Bonanza: Student-designed game connects the court to the classroom\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"Students from an \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-the-femineers\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eall-female engineering afterschool club\\u003c\/a\\u003e in Southern California invented \\u003ci\\u003eBottle Cap Bonanza\\u003c\/i\\u003e\u2014a tabletop game that teaches fraction concepts through shuffleboard-style play using everyday materials like bottle caps and a poster board. Recognizing the value of this student-created innovation, the Fraction Ball team integrated it as a core component of their classroom activities, illustrating how co-design can elevate student voice and create more effective approaches to math learning.\",\"_text_list_list_items_2_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"Fraction Ball empowers teachers to engage in student-centered, collaborative learning\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"Fraction Ball creates space for interactive, collaborative problem solving where students lead with confidence. When teachers step back and allow students to own the learning on the court\u2014making decisions, collaborating with peers, and discovering mathematical connections\u2014their \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/www.k12dive.com\/news\/students-math-fractions-decimals-play-executive-function-California\/722657\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003einstructional approach\\u003c\/a\\u003e fundamentally shifts. Teachers see new levels of teamwork, sportsmanship, and joy that ripple beyond the court, nourishing academic growth and uniquely human skills. They report that this experience has changed how they think about delivering math instruction in their classroom, inspiring them to bring more student-centered, collaborative practices to other lessons and learning contexts.\",\"_text_list_list_items_3_list_item_subheading\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_subheading\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"Playful assessment captures both math and executive function skills\",\"_text_list_list_items_4_list_item_headline\":\"field_text_list_text_list_list_items_list_item_headline\",\"text_list_list_items_4_list_item_subheading\":\"The \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly-video-game-demo\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003eFraction Ball \\u0022Exactly\u201d video game\\u003c\/a\\u003e offers educators valuable insights into their students\u2019 learning through a \\u003ca href=\\u0022https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/resource\/fraction-ball-exactly\/\\u0022 target=\\u0022_blank\\u0022 rel=\\u0022noopener\\u0022\\u003evalidated, playful assessment\\u003c\/a\\u003e of planning skills, assessed within the context of fractions. 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Compared to other movement-based math programs, Fraction Ball distinguishes itself through its intentional integration of rigorous mathematical learning with kinesthetic engagement. It excels at fostering student collaboration, agency, and conceptual thinking.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"Rennie Center for Education Research and Policy, EF+Math Competitive Product Analysis\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_0_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"\\u0022Being able to engage in Fraction Ball as a teacher made me feel seen and I appreciated that my kids were finally getting seen. Their voices, and my voice, were being elevated in research, and I was excited to learn that the communities that I serve (primarily Black and Brown students) were going to finally make it into research, and have a space in that community of researchers.\u201d\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"Lourdes Acevedo-Farag, R\\u0026D project team member\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_1_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"\u201cFraction Ball ran so smoothly this year, based on our suggestions from last year... We felt super valued, and we were able to execute the lessons with fidelity, based on our suggestions. My opinion and my voice mattered.\u201d \",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_text\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_text\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"Julie Laguna-Caturegli, district partner\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_source\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_source\",\"testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"\",\"_testimonials_quotes_2_quote_photo\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes_quote_photo\",\"testimonials_quotes\":3,\"_testimonials_quotes\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials_quotes\",\"testimonials\":\"\",\"_testimonials\":\"field_testimonials_testimonials\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cb6\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/featured-resources {\"name\":\"acf\/featured-resources\",\"data\":{\"featured_resources_headline\":\"Research Highlights\",\"_featured_resources_headline\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_headline\",\"featured_resources_resources\":[\"910\",\"992\",\"1009\",\"1079\"],\"_featured_resources_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources_resources\",\"featured_resources\":\"\",\"_featured_resources\":\"field_featured_resources_featured_resources\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01cc9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/staff-teaser-grid {\"name\":\"acf\/staff-teaser-grid\",\"data\":{\"staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"Project Team\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_headline\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_headline\",\"staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":[\"653\",\"654\",\"655\",\"656\",\"657\",\"659\",\"658\",\"661\",\"660\",\"662\",\"663\",\"664\",\"665\",\"666\",\"667\",\"668\",\"669\",\"670\",\"671\",\"566\",\"672\",\"673\",\"562\",\"674\",\"675\",\"676\"],\"_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_staff_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid_additional_members\",\"staff_teaser_grid\":\"\",\"_staff_teaser_grid\":\"field_staff_teaser_grid_staff_teaser_grid\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01ce9\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/text-row {\"name\":\"acf\/text-row\",\"data\":{\"text_row_headline\":\"Acknowledgments \",\"_text_row_headline\":\"field_text_row_text_row_headline\",\"text_row_subheading\":\"\",\"_text_row_subheading\":\"field_text_row_text_row_subheading\",\"text_row_content\":\"Fraction Ball thrives because of the educators, students, administrators, and community partners who bring playful math learning to life. We are especially grateful to the Santa Ana Unified School District, El Rancho Unified School District, Lynwood Unified School District, and El Sol Academy\u2014the community where Fraction Ball first took shape. Their commitment to joyful, equitable math learning continues to guide and inspire the work.\\r\\n\\r\\nWe also gratefully acknowledge the leadership of the University of California, Irvine, in partnership with Juego!.\",\"_text_row_content\":\"field_text_row_text_row_content\",\"text_row_buttons\":\"\",\"_text_row_buttons\":\"field_text_row_text_row_buttons\",\"text_row_alignment\":\"left\",\"_text_row_alignment\":\"field_text_row_text_row_alignment\",\"text_row\":\"\",\"_text_row\":\"field_text_row_text_row\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d09\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:acf\/full-width-cta {\"name\":\"acf\/full-width-cta\",\"data\":{\"full_width_cta_headline\":\"Explore Our R\\u0026D Projects\",\"_full_width_cta_headline\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_headline\",\"full_width_cta_subheading\":\"The EF+Math portfolio of R\\u0026D projects developed innovative math learning products and advanced research on mathematics learning, executive function skills, and equitable learning experiences using inclusive R\\u0026D methods.\",\"_full_width_cta_subheading\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_subheading\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":{\"title\":\"View All R\\u0026D Projects\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/projects\/\",\"target\":\"\"},\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button\",\"full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"primary\",\"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button_style\",\"full_width_cta_buttons\":1,\"_full_width_cta_buttons\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons\",\"full_width_cta\":\"\",\"_full_width_cta\":\"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta\"},\"mode\":\"edit\",\"id\":\"acf-block-69a63dfb01d26\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","description":"","objectType":"Project","project-type":[{"name":"Evaluation Study","slug":"evaluation-study","term_taxonomy_id":29,"taxonomy":"project-type"},{"name":"Product","slug":"product","term_taxonomy_id":28,"taxonomy":"project-type"}],"author":"Editorial Team","date":"December 8, 2025","pubDate":"2025-12-08 21:03:13","attachment":{"ID":812,"src":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg","img":"<img width=\"1280\" height=\"1091\" src=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg\" class=\"block w-full h-full object-cover object-center relative z-10\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1280x1091.jpeg 1280w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-300x256.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-1024x873.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-768x655.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-320x273.jpeg 320w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed-640x546.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/app\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Fraction-Ball_Feature-Image.compressed.jpeg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/>"},"meta":[]}]}}}],"additional_members":false,"advanced_accordion":null,"advanced_block_options":{"message_field_message":null}}}},{"blockName":"acf\/text-row","attrs":{"name":"acf\/text-row","data":{"text_row_headline":"Acknowledgments ","_text_row_headline":"field_text_row_text_row_headline","text_row_subheading":"","_text_row_subheading":"field_text_row_text_row_subheading","text_row_content":"Fraction Ball thrives because of the educators, students, administrators, and community partners who bring playful math learning to life. We are especially grateful to the Santa Ana Unified School District, El Rancho Unified School District, Lynwood Unified School District, and El Sol Academy\u2014the community where Fraction Ball first took shape. Their commitment to joyful, equitable math learning continues to guide and inspire the work.\r\n\r\nWe also gratefully acknowledge the leadership of the University of California, Irvine, in partnership with Juego!.","_text_row_content":"field_text_row_text_row_content","text_row_buttons":"","_text_row_buttons":"field_text_row_text_row_buttons","text_row_alignment":"left","_text_row_alignment":"field_text_row_text_row_alignment","text_row":"","_text_row":"field_text_row_text_row"},"mode":"edit","id":"acf-block-69a63dfb01d09"},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"","innerContent":[],"name":"text-row","data":{"text_row":{"headline":"Acknowledgments ","subheading":"","content":"<p>Fraction Ball thrives because of the educators, students, administrators, and community partners who bring playful math learning to life. We are especially grateful to the Santa Ana Unified School District, El Rancho Unified School District, Lynwood Unified School District, and El Sol Academy\u2014the community where Fraction Ball first took shape. Their commitment to joyful, equitable math learning continues to guide and inspire the work.<\/p>\n<p>We also gratefully acknowledge the leadership of the University of California, Irvine, in partnership with Juego!.<\/p>\n","buttons":false,"alignment":"left","advanced_accordion":null,"advanced_block_options":{"message_field_message":null}}}},{"blockName":"acf\/full-width-cta","attrs":{"name":"acf\/full-width-cta","data":{"full_width_cta_headline":"Explore Our R&D Projects","_full_width_cta_headline":"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_headline","full_width_cta_subheading":"The EF+Math portfolio of R&D projects developed innovative math learning products and advanced research on mathematics learning, executive function skills, and equitable learning experiences using inclusive R&D methods.","_full_width_cta_subheading":"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_subheading","full_width_cta_buttons_0_button":{"title":"View All R&D Projects","url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/projects\/","target":""},"_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button":"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button","full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style":"primary","_full_width_cta_buttons_0_button_style":"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons_button_style","full_width_cta_buttons":1,"_full_width_cta_buttons":"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta_buttons","full_width_cta":"","_full_width_cta":"field_full_width_cta_full_width_cta"},"mode":"edit","id":"acf-block-69a63dfb01d26"},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"","innerContent":[],"name":"full-width-cta","data":{"full_width_cta":{"headline":"Explore Our R&D Projects","subheading":"<p>The EF+Math portfolio of R&D projects developed innovative math learning products and advanced research on mathematics learning, executive function skills, and equitable learning experiences using inclusive R&D methods.<\/p>\n","buttons":[{"button":{"title":"View All R&D Projects","url":"https:\/\/efmathprogram.org\/projects\/","target":""},"button_style":"primary"}]}}},{"blockName":"core\/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n<p><\/p>\n","innerContent":["\n<p><\/p>\n"],"name":"paragraph","data":{"render":"<div data-type='core\/paragraph'><\/p><\/div>"}}]}}