Purpose Universal language can be viewed as a conjectural or antique dialogue that is understood by a great deal, if not all, of the world’s population. In this paper, a sound argument is presented that mathematical language exudes characteristics of worldwide understanding. The purpose of this paper is to explore mathematical language as a tool that transcends cultural lines. Design/methodology/approach This study has used a case study approach. The data relevant to the study were collected using participant observations, video recordings of classroom interactions and field notes. Findings Researchers found that mathematics communication and understanding were mutual among both groups whose languages were foreign to each other. Findings from this study stand to contribute to the ongoing discussion and debates about the universality of mathematics and to influence the teaching and learning of mathematics around the world. Originality/value Mathematics is composed of definitions, theorems, axioms, postulates, numbers and concepts that can all generally be expressed as symbols and that have been proven to be true across many nations. Through the symbolic representation of mathematical ideas, communication may occur that stands to break cultural barriers and unite all people using one common language.

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By focusing on the use of language that inspires, mathematics teachers can foster student agency and invite every student to be a member of the mathematics community.

This chapter shares the experience and preliminary findings from a national collaboration to improve secondary mathematics teacher preparation programs in the United States. Specifically, the chapter focuses on a research group tasked with strengthening field experiences into methods courses. Two modules are shared that a group of methods instructors have developed and are implementing in their courses. Findings from the first module are explained with implications for continued module development. These findings show the impact of the module on mentor teachers as well as the benefit the module has demonstrated in relation to the preservice teacher-mentor teacher relationship. Challenges and lessons learned from this national effort are also included.