Schema-based instruction
Last updated
Schema-based instruction teaches students to recognize the underlying structure, or schema, of a word problem and use a matching diagram to solve it.
Topic: Math instruction
In plain terms
Many word problems fit a few structures: total (parts combine into a whole), difference (comparing two amounts) and change (an amount increases or decreases). Students learn to identify the problem type, fill in a schematic diagram, and then choose the operation. This works better than hunting for key words, which often mislead.
How it shows up in an IEP
Problem-solving goals can name the problem types and the support: "given a schema diagram, will solve one-step change and compare problems with 80% accuracy." Fading the diagram can become an objective.
Example
A word problem says Maya had 12 stickers and gave away 5. The student identifies a change problem, fills in the start, change and end boxes, and writes 12 - 5 = 7.
Related terms
- CRA (concrete-representational-abstract)CRA is a teaching sequence that moves from hands-on objects to drawings to numbers and symbols, so students understand math before working abstractly.
- Graphic organizerA graphic organizer is a visual framework, such as a chart, map or diagram, that helps students organize ideas, information or steps.
- Functional mathFunctional math is the practical math used in daily life, such as handling money, telling time, measuring and following a schedule.
- Specially designed instruction (SDI)Specially designed instruction is teaching adapted in content, method or delivery to meet a student's disability-related needs.
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