K-8 Math Intervention
What is “Math Intervention”?
Math Intervention is targeted mathematics instruction tailored to each student’s areas of growth. Instead of simply reviewing their current grade-level content, math intervention aims to close any skill gaps that are making grade-level content difficult.
How does it work?
First, each student’s gaps must be identified. This is accomplished through quick assessments in the grade-level’s requisite skills; for example, if they are in 5th grade and learning to multiply fractions, I would give them a few questions requiring them to add fractions, or compare the values of fractions. I can also email or call their current math teacher, if such is acceptable to both the teacher and the guardian. Once specific skills are identified, we will first re-learn these skills by first addressing them concretely, then pictorially, then abstractly. For example, if the skill is adding fractions, we would start by using manipulatives (physical representations) for fractions, then pictures, and finally connect the dots into abstract, written problems. Sometimes, content is difficult because teachers skip the concrete and pictorial steps in learning, resulting in students not fully understanding what the math means.
After each student feels confident in abstract problems with the skill, we will begin to incorporate word problems and project-based practice.
Each “unit” of lessons based in a skill will be finished when the student feels confident and can pass a few assessment questions using the skill.
What if my student isn’t missing any previous skills, and they are just struggling with the current grade-level content?
That is amazing! Intervention can still help with that. Sometimes, we are fortunate enough to “intervene” early, meaning we can resolve misunderstandings before they become gaps. In this case, lessons would still be focused on understanding the difficult skill from a concrete level all the way to an abstract level. After this, I will provide additional practice opportunities that require the skill to be applied conceptually, such as word problems and interest-driven projects. We will continue to explore the skills they are learning in class each week so that they feel confident going into math class having already had exposure to the skills required.
Scheduling a lesson
Math Intervention lessons can be conducted in person at a library near you, at your home, or virtually over Google Meet. If you are interested in scheduling a session, or you are wondering if Math Intervention is the right service for you, please schedule a free consultation below.
