About the Intervention
POWERSOURCE is a formative assessment intervention for 6th-grade mathematics that targets key algebraic concepts including rational number equivalence, properties of arithmetic (distributive property), principles for solving linear equations, and application of core principles to other mathematical areas. The intervention includes short Checks for Understanding assessments (8-10 items initially, then 4-5 items for subsequent checks), instructional resources with lesson scripts and student worksheets, and professional development for teachers. Teachers administer three Checks for Understanding per domain across approximately eight class periods, with instruction adjusted based on assessment results. The intervention is designed to complement existing curricula and focuses on big ideas that are prerequisites for success in Algebra 1.
Statistical Findings
Positive effect: on distributive property items for students with higher pretest scores
Mixed effect: on overall transfer measure with students with higher pretest scores benefiting more from treatment compared to students with lower pretest scores
More Intervention Details
Focus Areas
N/APrograms & Services
General EducationDelivery Methods
Face-to-FaceDisability Support
N/ATarget Groups
Student(s), Teachers/Instructional TeamsCitation
Eva L., B., Joan L., H., Julia, P., Kilchan, C. & Vendlinski, T. (2009). The Effects of POWERSOURCE[C] Intervention on Student Understanding of Basic Mathematical Principles. CRESST Report 763 (ED507757). ERIC. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED507757.pdf.
Study Demographics
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