Case Study: Fiona

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Case Study: Fiona

Grade: 9th

Age: 14

It is the beginning of the second semester, and Fiona is having a great deal of difficulty in her mainstream algebra class. Prior to this year, she was receiving instruction in the resource setting. At her eighth grade transition IEP meeting, her parents expressed their wishes that Fiona be in the mainstream algebra class, despite her special education teacher explaining that low reading comprehension negatively affects the understanding of math concepts. Fiona understands basic concepts of algebra but has not mastered the skills needed to move to the higher-level concepts her class is now working on. Currently, her math performance has been measured two years below grade level and her reading performance one year below grade level. Fiona’s general education math teacher has spoken with her parents about the possible need for additional support, and her parents have agreed to help at home, as they do not want her being pulled out for resource at this time.

The following goals have been identified by the special education teacher collaborating with the general education math teacher for Fiona:

Simplify addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division equations [e.g., (2x + 6) + (4x + 7) = 6x + 13].
Solve expressions with variables (e.g., 3x = -24).
Write and solve the algebraic equation in a real-life word problem.

Design a comprehensive mathematics unit plan based on the goals identified for Fiona. Outline three sequenced lesson plans, using the “3 Day Unit Plan Template.”

 

Sample Solution

Fiona’s case presents a complex situation where a student with identified learning needs is placed in a challenging academic environment. Her low reading comprehension significantly impacts her ability to grasp algebraic concepts, despite her potential for understanding basic algebraic principles.

Key Considerations for Unit Planning

Before developing the unit plan, it’s crucial to consider the following:

  • Fiona’s strengths: Build on her understanding of basic algebraic concepts.
  • Fiona’s weaknesses: Address her low reading comprehension and difficulty with higher-level concepts.
  • Differentiation: Provide varied instructional strategies to cater to Fiona’s learning style.
  • Collaboration: Maintain open communication with the general education teacher and parents.
  • Assessment: Regularly monitor Fiona’s progress to adjust instruction accordingly.

Unit Plan: Simplifying Algebraic Expressions

Goal: Simplify addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division equations.

3-Day Unit Plan Template

Day 1: Introduction to Like Terms

  • Warm-up: Review basic arithmetic operations with whole numbers and decimals.
  • Direct Instruction: Define like terms, provide examples, and explain how to combine like terms. Use visual aids, such as color-coding, to differentiate between like and unlike terms.
  • Guided Practice: Provide students with simple expressions containing like terms to simplify. Offer support as needed.
  • Independent Practice: Assign homework with a variety of expressions to simplify.

Day 2: Combining Like Terms with Multiple Operations

  • Warm-up: Review the previous day’s lesson on combining like terms.
  • Direct Instruction: Introduce expressions with multiple operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division). Explain the order of operations (PEMDAS) and how it applies to simplifying expressions.
  • Guided Practice: Work through examples together, emphasizing the importance of following the order of operations.
  • Independent Practice: Assign more complex expressions for independent practice.

Day 3: Real-World Application

  • Warm-up: Review the concept of like terms and the order of operations.
  • Direct Instruction: Present real-world scenarios involving algebraic expressions (e.g., calculating total cost, finding area).
  • Guided Practice: Work through real-world problems as a class, emphasizing the connection between algebra and everyday life.
  • Independent Practice: Assign word problems requiring students to write and simplify algebraic expressions.

Differentiation for Fiona:

  • Provide additional examples and practice problems with simpler numbers.
  • Use visual aids and manipulatives to reinforce concepts.
  • Offer extended time for assignments.
  • Break down complex problems into smaller steps.
  • Provide explicit instruction on vocabulary and word problems.

By following this structured approach and incorporating differentiation strategies, Fiona can gradually build her skills in simplifying algebraic expressions.

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