Provide explicit instruction and incorporate visual representations and motivational strategies.

Intervention instruction should be explicit and systematic, incorporating models of proficient problem solving, verbalization of thought processes, guided practice, corrective feedback, and frequent cumulative review. Instructional materials should include examples of easy and difficult problems. Students need guided practice with scaffolding, including opportunities to communicate their problem-solving strategies. Motivation is key for students struggling with math, so it is important to praise effort and engagement to encourage persistence.

Intervention materials should provide students opportunities to work with visual representations of math concepts, and interventionists should be proficient in their use. Tools such as number lines and strip diagrams have many different uses in explanation of mathematical concepts and problem solving. When introducing new concepts to students, it is helpful to begin with concrete experiences, follow up with visual representation, and then move to abstract concepts.