1. Teaching Graphing Systems of
Equations to Special Needs
Students
Tutorial and Summary
AET 545
Canillia Robertson
Carrie Lewis

2. Systems of Equations
• Solving Systems can be
challenging for students whom
lack the foundational skills of Algebra.

3. Goal
• Provide tips for teachers to use while teaching
graphing systems
• Plan for student’s misconceptions

4. Basic Graphing
Knowledge
• Students should easily identify the slope and
y-intercept of an equation.
y = 2x – 7
where the y-intercept is -7
and the slope is 2

5. FYI
Students forget to start on
the y-axis

6. Learning by Notetaking
Special education students learn best by taking notes
that can be beneficial .
Have students write
1. the starting point for each equation
2. and the slope.

7. How can your students
benefit from notetaking?

8. Use of Directional Arrows
RISE
RUN
• The slope of a line is directional.
These arrows help students
remember what direction to go.
negative #
negative #
positive #
positive #

9. Remember Each
Graph Has 2
Lines

10. Almost every student becomes confused when identifying
the point of intersection between the two graphs.
Start with the point
of intersection
Follow the grid
straight down to the x -axis
this is your “x”
Follow the grid
straight across to the y -axis
this is your “y”
(-2, 2)

11. Let’s Recap

12. How will you assess that
students can correctly
identify the slope?

13. Why will students not
understand how to graph
a slope that is not a
fraction?
It must be reiterated that the slope of a
whole number is always over 1

14. Think of some
misconceptions that
students will have in
graphing?

15. Summary
• Special Education students find graphing extremely
hard.
• Student’s often give up on trying to graph because
they find it too complicated.
• Given these tips some of the frustration will be
alleviated and will provide a feeling of
accomplishment.