The Effects of the Concrete–Representational–Abstract Integration Strategy on the Ability of Students With Learning Disabilities to Multiply Linear Expressions Within Area Problems. (May 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Strickland, Tricia K.; Maccini, Paula
• Is Part Of: Remedial and special education. Volume 34:Number 3(2013)
• Page Start: 142
• Page End: 153
• Publication Date: 2013-05
• Subjects: learning disabilities -- Mathematics -- middle/junior high -- single-subject; Special education -- Periodicals; Learning disabilities -- Periodicals; 371.905
• DOI: 10.1177/0741932512441712
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0741-9325

Abstract

We examined the effects of the Concrete–Representational–Abstract Integration strategy on the ability of secondary students with learning disabilities to multiply linear algebraic expressions embedded within contextualized area problems. A multiple-probe design across three participants was used. Results indicated that the integration of the concrete manipulatives, sketches of manipulatives, and abstract notation with the support of a graphic organizer (i.e., expansion box) was an effective strategy to improve students' conceptual understanding and procedural fluency of multiplying two linear expressions. Furthermore, participants generalized the algebraic material to novel problem tasks and maintained performance up to 6 weeks following intervention.