Recorded: Aug. 2020

Unit Plan: Introduction to Algebra I

Grade Level: 9th Grade
Duration: 3 Weeks (15 class days)
Unit Theme: Foundations of Algebra – Variables, Expressions, and Equations

Unit Objectives

By the end of this unit, all students will be able to:

1. Define and use variables and algebraic expressions.

2. Apply the order of operations correctly.

3. Solve and simplify one-step and two-step equations.

4. Interpret and create expressions and equations from real-world scenarios.

Standards Addressed

Aligned to Arkansas Mathematics Standards and College and Career Readiness Standards (CCRS) for Algebra I.

Assessment Plan

• Pre-assessment: Diagnostic quiz on pre-algebra skills.

• Formative Assessments: Exit tickets, math journals, daily problem sets.

• Summative Assessment: Unit test with multiple-choice and open-response items.

• Progress Monitoring: Bi-weekly skill probes for students with disabilities tied to IEP goals.

Lesson Sequence Overview

WeekTopicActivitiesSDI StrategiesIEP Alignment & Monitoring1Variables & ExpressionsConcept map, matching activity, foldablesUse of visuals and manipulatives; direct instructionStudents with LD: Modeling expressions and pre-teaching vocabulary specially-designed-inst…1Order of OperationsInteractive notes, error analysis tasksSmall-group reteach sessions; color-coded stepsProgress data tracked through station review quizzesspecially-designed-inst…2One-Step EquationsHands-on balancing scale activity; IXL practiceScaffolded worksheets; peer pairing with structured rolesMath calculation IEP goal progress monitoring weekly specially-designed-inst…2Two-Step EquationsReal-life scenarios (word problems), graphic organizersExplicit instruction with guided practice; use of worked examplesObservation logs + rubric-based assessments for multi-step problem solvingspecially-designed-inst…3Review & AssessmentEscape room activity, practice testTesting accommodations (extended time, reduced distractions)Post-assessment compared with baseline to assess growth specially-designed-inst…

Specially Designed Instruction (SDI) Supports

1. Content Adaptation

• Present information using multiple modalities: auditory, visual, kinesthetic.

• Use instructional-level reading materials for word problems for students with reading difficultiesspecially-designed-inst….

• Provide chunked content to reduce cognitive load.

2. Methodology

• Emphasize direct, explicit instruction and modeling of problem-solving strategies.

• Use evidence-based methods like:

  • Concrete-Representational-Abstract (CRA) approaches.

  • Self-monitoring checklists.

  • Repetition and spiraling back to core skills.

3. Delivery

• Co-teaching model (general educator + special educator).

• Frequent check-ins, small group instruction, or 1:1 reteaching.

• Delivery location aligned with LRE decision (general education setting with SDI supports embedded).

Implementation Plan for Teachers

Before Lessons

• Review IEPs and SDI needs.

• Plan differentiated stations and formative assessments.

• Communicate with special education teacher or inclusion staff.

During Lessons

• Document use of SDI (e.g., behavior charts, math journals with feedback).

• Use formative data to adapt pacing and groupings.

• Provide real-time scaffolds and accommodations (speech-to-text, calculator use, etc.).

After Lessons

• Conduct data team meetings to assess progress monitoring tools.

• Reflect on SDI effectiveness using coaching rubrics and teacher logsspecially-designed-inst….

• Adjust goals or supports based on documented student responses.

Family & Student Engagement

• Send home simplified guides explaining strategies.

• Invite families to contribute examples of math use in home life.

• Use home-based activities for reinforcement aligned with SDI plansMeaningful Access Leade….

Integration with AR SPDG Priorities

This unit plan embodies the goals of Arkansas SPDG to:

• Increase implementation of SDI and evidence-based practices.

• Improve IEP outcomes through person-centered planning.

• Utilize data-driven decision-making and collaborative teaching teams