Schema-Based Instruction (SBI)

Schema-Based Instruction (SBI) is a mathematical word problem-solving instructional approach for middle school students with learning disabilities or at risk for mathematics failure. The intervention teaches students to identify problem types (multiplicative compare and proportion problems), represent problems using schematic diagrams that capture the mathematical structure, and transform those diagrams into equations to solve for unknowns. Students receive explicit instruction in recognizing problem schemas through story situations, mapping information onto diagrams, and using those representations to derive solutions. The intervention is delivered in small groups of approximately 10 students, meeting 3-4 times per week for about one hour per session over 12 sessions total. Instructors include doctoral students in special education and experienced special education teachers who receive two 1-hour training sessions on the instructional approach before implementation.