Tackling Complex Math: Five Instructional Practices to Support Middle School Students

In middle school (i.e., Grades 6–8), the Common Core State Standards for math are grouped into six domains: the number system, expressions and equations, geometry, statistics and probability, ratios and proportional relationships, and functions (National Governors Association Center for Best Practices & Council of Chief State School Officers [NGA & CCSSO], 2010). With emphasis placed on ratios, proportions, and algebra in middle school, math content in these six domains becomes increasingly complex and abstract for students. Throughout this article, these domains are referenced through the lens of suggestions for teaching students with or at risk for disabilities.