Part 1: Strategies
Selected Instructional Strategies:
1. Explicitly Teaching Related Vocabulary
2. Use of Concrete-Representational-Abstract (CRA) Strategies
Explicitly Teaching Related Vocabulary
$This strategy entails explaining to Fiona the basic terms that she needs to know when
doing algebra, including the terms variable, coefficient, expression, and equation, among others.
Fiona has a low reading comprehension level, and this hinders her from understanding most of
the concepts in mathematics. Therefore, by explaining these terms, we can close the gap between
her knowledge and what is taught in class. This strategy enables Fiona to be able to follow
lessons easily, participate in class and gain confidence in algebra. Some of the implementation
tips are to use flashcards and word walls, use of games in teaching the vocabulary and also to
conduct follow-up sessions. Vocabulary can be taught in conjunction with daily lessons and
assessments to guarantee that the students retain the words and concepts.
Concrete-Representational-Abstract (CRA) Strategies
"The CRA strategy involves three stages of learning: from concrete manipulatives (for
example, algebra tiles) to symbolic (for example, drawings or diagrams) and then to abstract (for
example, algebraic notation). This gradual approach can help Fiona overcome her challenges
with advanced algebraic concepts. The CRA method offers her the concrete to abstract
progression which helps her to consolidate her knowledge and gain confidence. Implementation
strategies include using concrete objects such as algebra tiles to model equations physically, then
drawing the representations, and finally solving the equations in the abstract mode. Applying this
method to new topics guarantees continuity and comprehension of the subject matter.
Both strategies are suitable for Fiona’s objectives since they meet her learning requirements,
offer a systematic method of learning algebra, and enhance her motivation by presenting the
material in an easy-to-understand manner.
Part 3: Home Connection
Plan to Involve Parents
Communication and well-organized home activities are crucial to engaging Fiona’s
parents in helping her achieve her goals. I will also provide weekly email updates on Fiona’s
progress and the concepts taught in class. I will also give specific guidelines for basic home
activities that her parents can engage her in to help her develop.
At-Home Activity
"A specific at-home activity will be using flashcards for algebraic terms and simple
equations. Parents can use these flashcards to revisit them with Fiona for 10-15 minutes in the
evening. Some of the terms that will be featured on the flashcards include ‘variable,’
‘coefficient,’ and sample equations that Fiona needs to solve. This activity will help the students
revise the vocabulary and concepts taught in class in a way that will be more engaging and fun.
Rationale
Involving Fiona’s parents is crucial in ensuring that the learning environment is coherent
and supportive of her school education. By daily updates and following a well-structured plan of
activities, parents are aware of Fiona’s progress and the particularities of the concepts she is
learning at school. This alignment enables parents to support Fiona at home, backing up what she
learns and making her understanding even better.
In this way, parents are involved, and Fiona gets positive reinforcement from different
contexts to maintain her motivation and concentration on academic achievements. The
partnership between home and school ensures that Fiona is in an environment that encourages
her to work hard and try her best at everything. This not only helps Fiona enhance her academic
abilities but also her personal development and self-esteem in learning algebra.