ABSTRACT

Retaining prior information is a common challenge for struggling math students. Successful secondary math students can recall and apply several years’ worth of knowledge, skills, and vocabulary. Students with IEPs may struggle with attention, working memory, or long-term storage and retrieval. Each of these conditions can contribute to difficulties with memory and retention. This chapter explores instructional strategies for improving students’ retention of knowledge and skills. Examples and discussion explore ways that teachers can help students build connections between topics through anchor charts and spaced practice, improving long-term retention. Graphic organizers can be an effective tool for students with limited working memory.