By the time students reach middle school, gaps in foundational math concepts can feel less like cracks and more like canyons. When a student struggles with ratios, expressions, or integers, the root cause often traces back to a fragile understanding of elementary foundations. How do we catch them up without falling behind on grade-level standards?
This actionable session explores how to use vertical alignment as a superpower for targeted intervention. We will look backward to grades 3–5 standards to understand exactly where the conceptual breakdown happened—specifically focusing on fractions, place value, and multiplicative reasoning. You will discover how to use high-leverage visual models (like strip diagrams, area models, and double number lines) that span across grade levels to build a bridge from what students know to what they need to master. Walk away with practical, research-backed strategies to weave prerequisite skills into daily middle school core instruction and intervention.
This session is for math teachers in grades 6-8, Special Education teachers, math interventionists, and math Instructional Coaches.