This book is a must-read for elementary teachers of mathematics who want success from the start, and an excellent resource for veteran teachers who want to hone their practice. Ernst and Ryan have synthesized layers of pedagogy and practice and effectively conveyed the complexities of teaching without overwhelming new teachers or oversimplifying the art of teaching. Starting with clear goals for student learning, Success from the Startgives teachers a practical, research based framework for developing their students’ proficiency in problem solving and procedural fluency with conceptual understanding. Through classroom vignettes, readers are invited to think deeply about how to establish supportive learning communities and encouraged to delve into the nuances of orchestrating meaningful classroom discussions. The multiple elements involved in lesson planning, modifying and creating rich mathematical tasks and using assessment before, during and after lessons, as well as the critical components of differentiated instruction are all clearly delineated."" - Meredith Melvin Adelfio Math Coach and Coordinator, Sidwell Friends School, Washington, D.C. Recipient of the 2006 Presidential Award for Excellence in the Teaching of Mathematics and Science ""The authors have crafted a powerful and practical guide for every primary teacher who grapples with effective ways to implement high-quality mathematics instruction that works for all students. Ernst and Ryan have filled Success from the Start with authentic and rich vignettes and clear examples that support deep and engaging student learning of important mathematics, including procedural fluency, conceptual understanding and problem solving. Chapters 9 and 10, focusing on lesson planning and lesson enactment respectively, are my personal favorites, providing insightful and indispensable guidance for crafting and delivering impactful instruction.” - Steve Leinwand American Institutes for Research. “In Success from the Start Ernst and Ryan outline a plan for the elementary school teacher with ideas and strategies that guarantee to bring early mathematics classrooms to life. Through classroom vignettes and samples of student work the authors invite the reader to join the authors in their visits to exemplary classrooms, while questions for the reader invite reflection and hands on exploration. No aspect of teaching goes unnoticed: the authors provide strategies for planning discussions, ideas for designing class space to increase productivity, follow up with tips for assessment that informs instruction, and give advice for parent-teacher conferences. This book is a valuable resource for teachers both new and experienced."" - Despina Stylianou The City College of New York.