Improving Math Learning for Students with Disabilities:
Patterns and Algebra Strand (Grades 6-8)
In this course, teachers learn ways to make math lessons accessible to a range of diverse learners, while still maintaining high standards and the integrity of the math. Focusing on the Patterns and Algebra strand, teachers deepen their understanding of the kinds of difficulties students have with this math content, and explore different ways to help them.
In the sessions, teachers view classroom videos, examine student work, read case stories, engage in discussions, and plan strategies to use with their students. With practical suggestions and Accessibility Planning Tools, the course enables teachers to apply strategies to their specific situations—their curricula, students, and school contexts.
Who should take this course? Math teachers and
special educators (Grades 6-8). We strongly encourage teaching partners
and teams to take the course together.
What kinds of students with disabilities does the course focus on? Students with learning disabilities who are being taught the general education mathematics curriculum.
What Do Math and Special Educators Say about the Course?
- "This course was great... It was good to see different accessibility
strategies, and how to implement them in the classroom. I also enjoyed the
time that was set aside for the math teacher and myself to work together
to plan material."
- "I loved the concrete tools- co-planning worksheets, accessibility
framework etc. [and] valued the structured time to work with my co-teacher."
- "The course offered a great combination of discussion, reading, videos,
and activities. The instructors were incredibly knowledgeable and supportive!"
Click for more specifics
of
what teachers gained from the course.
Time: The following options are available:
- Seven 3-hour afterschool sessions
held every 2 weeks
- Four full-day sessions held
3-5 weeks apart
- Combination of full-day and afterschool
sessions, such as:
° 2 full-day sessions and 3 afterschool sessions
° 1 full-day session and 5 afterschool sessions
What Do Districts Need to Do in Order to Host the Course?
- Recruit participants.
The course needs a minimum of 25 participants, including both special
educators and math teachers. The maximum number is 40 participants.
To maximize the impact of
the course and planning activities, we strongly encourage:
° Co-teaching partners to participate
together
° Teachers to take the course
with grade-level colleagues
Math coaches and district coordinators
in math and special education are also encouraged to participate.
- Set up the course schedule.
The hosting district needs to work with the instructors to
determine dates and times for the sessions. (Note that districts
need to provide substitutes for the full-day sessions.)
- Provide
a meeting location. The
hosting district needs to provide a meeting room for sessions,
with enough room for teachers to work together in small groups
at tables or desks.
For more information, please
contact us.
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