Effective Math Interventions in the Elementary PSSA Grades

This mixed-methods study was conducted to determine the math interventions and strategies that are showing a positive increase in student achievement and growth in grades three, four, and five across the Bellefonte Area School District. Effective math teachers were first identified by looking at multiple academic data sets and then questionnaire responses were compared to determine similarities in their instructional practices. The similar interventions and strategies will be shared with teachers through professional learning sessions and ultimately used with students in classrooms. The strategies and interventions that were identified to be showing success were guided/small group math instruction, extra and focused work on open-ended math questions, the use of online math programs like Reflex Math, and data use. The effectiveness of departmentalization was also analyzed. The qualitative data supports departmentalization while the quantitative data does not. This area will require additional analysis in the future. Finally, the professional learning needs of staff were identified and will help guide the district’s professional learning plan and its Comprehensive Plan. Some of these areas that will be focal points are guided math, the integration of technology, and data use.