The number line is a powerful tool for supporting students' understanding of fraction magnitude. Fractions are a critical component of mathematics instruction in the elementary and intermediate grades. More specifically, understanding fraction magnitude is central to mathematical development. Yet, fractions are challenging for many students,…

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of the concrete-representational-abstract--integrated (CRA-I) sequence on students with learning disabilities' performance when learning fraction and decimal concepts. Three elementary-level students in Grades 4 and 6 participated in a single-case multiple probe across behaviors study. The…

One of the most persistent areas of difficulty in mathematics for children with learning disabilities (LDs) and difficulties is fractions. We report the development and initial testing of an intervention designed to increase access to and advancement in conceptual understanding. Our asset-based theory of change--a tested and confirmed learning…

Fractions are an important mathematical concept for elementary students. However, students with mathematics learning disabilities (MLD) struggle with learning fractions. Research has demonstrated that concrete-representational-abstract (CRA) instruction is an effective practice for students with learning and developmental disabilities. Here we…

The purpose of the systematic review of mathematics intervention syntheses was to identify patterns and gaps in content areas, instructional strategies, effect sizes, and definitions of learning disabilities (LD), mathematics LD (MLD), and mathematics difficulty (MD). Using rigorous inclusion criteria, we evaluated 36 syntheses that included 836…

Developing an understanding of fractions is critical, as it is the first connection of whole-number properties to rational numbers within a single framework. The unique properties of fractions necessitate solution processes that are distinctive and often more complicated than whole-number processes, resulting in many students struggling with…

When a student struggles with a mathematics task, adults may rephrase or expand initial task instructions to clarify instructions or scaffold problem solving. Yet expanded instructions may not benefit all children, especially children with a mathematics learning disability (MLD). Here, we explore whether expanded instructions differentially affect…

This pilot study examined the promise of a Tier 2 sixth grade intervention program for students at-risk for difficulties in mathematics. The study utilized a quasi-experimental design. The final sample included 112 students in treatment (Promoting Algebra Readiness) and 86 students in control (standard district practice) conditions. The Promoting…

This pilot study examined the promise of a Tier 2 Grade 6 intervention program for students at risk for difficulties in mathematics. The study utilized a quasi-experimental design. The final sample included 112 students in treatment (Promoting Algebra Readiness) and 86 students in control (standard district practice) conditions. The Promoting…

We present the evolving fraction conceptions of two elementary school children with mathematics learning disabilities (MLD). We use qualitative analyses to capture the mathematical knowledge and experiences of each child and show how teaching was used to support advancement of their fractional reasoning. Results illustrate two viable pathways of…

The researchers conducted a microanalysis of two purposefully sampled sessions of a tutor working with a student with a learning disability (LD) engaging with multi-step equations with and without fractions. During the tutoring sessions, the student experienced quick, independent success on equations without fractions, but struggled considerably…

This study presents three students who are bilingual with learning dis/abilities in small group mathematics discussions. The three students showcased their abilities as problem solvers, justifiers, and evaluators of basic operation and fractional understanding. This paper presents the teaching practices used to support the mathematical agency of…

We present study findings that depict the natural and fractional number knowledge of one third grade student with learning disabilities (LDs) in seven experimental sessions. We utilize qualitative analysis methods to illustrate how this student evidenced her knowledge of natural number and fractions through her interactions with varied learning…

Assessment data from the United States and international reports of student achievement indicate that upper elementary students are failing to meet basic levels of proficiency in fractions and writing, and that this is particularly prevalent with students with or at-risk for learning disabilities in mathematics. Proficiency with fractions has been…

Manipulatives are a common tool in mathematics teaching and learning, including for students with disabilities. The most common manipulatives are concrete manipulatives, yet app-based manipulatives are a viable age-appropriate option for secondary students with disabilities. Through an adapted alternating treatment design with three middle school…