Mathematics- Using Graphic
Organizers to make Mathematics
more accessible in our classrooms
Rebecca Gibbs
Successful Learning Conference June 2015
S
Evidence – Based Practice
S  Background
S  What is an evidence-based practice?
S  Graphic Organisers
Graphic Organizers
S  What is a graphic organiser?
S  Formats
S  How do they work?
Example
(Jimenez, Courtade & Browder, 2013)
Example using Addition Story
S  What do we need to find out? Refer back to the story
S  How many goals were scored?
Graphic Organiser
Adapted from example found in Jimenez, Courtade & Browder, 2013
S  Solve the problem using the graphic organiser
S  Can the graphic organiser look different?
S  How can it look?
Differentiating the Graphic Organiser to
meet the needs of learners
Adapted from example found in Jimenez, Courtade & Browder, 2013
Differentiating the Graphic
Organiser
Adapted from example found in Jimenez, Courtade & Browder, 2013
Differentiating the Graphic
Organiser
Adapted from example found in Jimenez, Courtade & Browder, 2013
Tracking Progress…
Patterns and Algebra Example
S  Focus for this example is taken from the NSW Mathematics
K-6 Syllabus for the Australian Curriculum (2012)
S  Patterns and Algebra Outcome
Recognises, describes and continues repeating patterns
MAe-8NA
Content:
Recognise, copy, continue and create repeated patterns using
shapes, objects or pictures
How can this graphic organiser
support access to the instruction?
Can we differentiate the graphic
organiser to meet the needs of
learners?
Your Turn….
Using the following content from Early Stage One
Addition and Subtraction: Outcome: Combines, separates and compares collections
of objects, describes using everyday language, and records using informal methods
MAe-5NA
Content
S  Record addition and subtraction informally using drawings, words and numerals
In your groups of 3-4, take time think about the standard:
1. 
What is it REALLY measuring?
2. 
Develop a graphic organizer that could be used for students to illustrate and
demonstrate meaning! How will the student “show what they know?
Example may include…
(Jimenez, Courtade & Browder, 2013)
Assessment
S  How do we assess the content we are teaching ?
Summary
S  Graphic organisers support students when teaching math
concepts.
Jimenez, B., & Kemmery,M.(2013)
S  Graphic organisers are most effective when instruction is
informed, explicit, intentional and scaffolded
Power Tools for Teaching Students with Learning Disabilities Issue 13 Spring 2007
Graphic Organisers:
References
S  Jimenez, B., Courtade, G., Browder, D., (2013) 6 Successful Strategies for
Teaching Common Core State Standards to students with Moderate to Severe
Disabilities. Verona, Wisconsin: Attainment Company Inc.
S  Jimenez, B., & Kemmery,M.(2013). Building early numeracy skills in students
with moderate intellectual disability. Education and Training in Autism and
Developmental Disabilities, 48(4), 479-490
S  Graphic Organisers: Power Tools for Teaching Students with Learning
Disabilities Issue 13 Spring 2007
S  Mathematics K-10 Syllabus, Volume 1 Mathematics K-6 2012 Board of
Studies New South Wales