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INTERVENTION STRATEGY:

SIR RIGHT

Brief Description: This mnemonic strategy is designed to improve students’ math

problem-solving skills. It cues students through the steps to follow to solve word

problems effectively.

Materials Needed:

 Cue cards printed with mnemonic and what it stands for

 Classroom posters printed with mnemonic and what it stands for

Implementation: This strategy can be implemented individually, in small groups, or

whole group. It can be facilitated by a teacher, paraprofessional or adult volunteer.

The following steps should be taken when introducing any mnemonic strategy:

1. Discuss the purpose of this strategy and model when to use it.

2. Model what each letter in the mnemonic stands for and how it relates to solving

the math problem.

3. Model how to apply it to what students have already learned about solving

problems.

4. Provide students with cue cards printed with the mnemonic to place on their desks

or to place in their math folders.

5. Put up posters of the mnemonic on the walls of the classroom.

6. Use rapid-fire verbal rehearsal to help students remember the strategy.

Create posters and cue cards with these steps:

S = Start by reading the problem

I = Identify all numbers (digits and words)

R = Reread the problem and draw a picture or diagram

R = Reread the problem again to find the question

I = Inquire, “What do I have to do to answer the question?”

G = ‘Guesstimate,’ or estimate, an answer

H = Have a go at computing an answer

T = Take a check back to see if the answer makes sense

Students should check off each step as it is completed.

Schedule for implementation: The procedure should be taught until students have

mastered the steps and use the strategy independently. Reinforcement of the strategy

should occur daily.

Research Summary & References:

The following sources may be consulted to learn the essentials and variations of this

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strategy:

Friend, M., & Bursick, W.D. (2001). Including students with special needs: A practical

guide for classroom teachers (3 rd ed.) Boston, MA: Allyn & Bacon/Pearson Education,

Inc.

http://www.allkindsofminds.org/CaseStudy.aspx?casestudyid=6

http://www.specialeducation.ilstu.edu/csss/solutions/documents/mathinterventions.html

*Intervention information compiled by the National Association of School Psychologists.