Robyn Wise, Middle School Math Teacher
Unlocking Mathematical Potential at Mclean School: Strategies for Supporting Students with Dyscalculia
Dyscalculia is a diagnosed learning disability that affects an individual’s ability to understand and work with numbers and mathematical concepts. It is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects the brain’s ability to process and comprehend numerical and mathematical information, and not at all indicative of a lack of intelligence or effort. In my over 20 years as a Math educator I’ve seen many bright students struggle with how to learn math. Often, the middle school students I work with have received messages that they are bad at math, simply because they had difficulties memorizing tables or regurgitating facts at a rapid pace. I’ll never forget when the mother of a Pre-Algebra student broke down in tears during a conference telling me that their lego-building, strategy-game loving son was turned off of math when an elementary teacher told them they weren’t good at it if they couldn’t learn their math facts better. Fast forward a few years at McLean, and the student was successfully taking multiple advanced Math courses.
Dyscalculia can manifest differently in each student and the severity of symptoms may vary, but it is likely a student with diagnosed dyscalculia would present with challenges related to: basic number concepts and number recognition, counting, basic arithmetic operations, mental math, telling time, understanding mathematical symbols, measurement, spatial reasoning, and grasping abstract mathematical concepts.
With the right strategies and support, students with dyscalculia can develop their mathematical skills and build confidence. Here are some of the most effective strategies to support students’ mathematical learning that we use. I like to think that these are really best practices for all students, and vitally important for those with specific challenges in math.
- Manipulatives. Utilizing concrete materials such as counters, blocks, or number lines can help students visualize and manipulate numbers, aiding in the understanding of abstract mathematical concepts.
- Visual Representations. Incorporating visual aids like diagrams, charts, or graphs can enhance comprehension and assist students in visualizing mathematical relationships.
- Verbal and Auditory Support. By providing clear and explicit verbal instructions, sometimes even using mnemonics or chants to remember mathematical facts, and encouraging verbal explanations of problem-solving steps, reinforces a student’s understanding.
- Multi-Modal Learning. I like to combine visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning experiences to reinforce mathematical concepts. For example, we’ll play games, choreograph dance moves, listen to math songs, or engage in physical activities that involve counting or measuring.
- Scaffolded Learning. It’s important to break down complex mathematical concepts into manageable steps.
- Real-Life Applications. Relate mathematical concepts to real-life situations to demonstrate their relevance and encourage students’ interest and engagement.
- Concrete to Abstract. We first start with hands-on, real-world examples to establish a solid foundation of understanding before gradually transitioning to more abstract mathematical concepts.
- Step-by-Step Approach. Breaking down problem-solving processes into sequential steps allows students to focus on one step at a time and gradually build their mathematical skills, and confidence.
- Visual Cues. Using visual cues such as color-coding or highlighting key information in word problems, helps students identify relevant information and understand the problem better.
- Assistive Technology. Calculators, math apps, or computer-based programs that offer interactive and visual approaches to mathematical concepts, can allow students to engage with the material more effectively.
- Strengths Based Approach. The recognition that each student possesses unique abilities promotes a positive and empowering learning environment. By building on existing strengths, students gain confidence, making the subject more accessible and enjoyable. Students feel safe identifying challenges as an opportunity for growth and exploration, rather than moments of defeat and failure. It’s our Abiliites Model® in action!
Every student deserves the opportunity to excel in mathematics, and with the right support, students with dyscalculia can unlock their mathematical potential and succeed academically and beyond.
Email admission@mcleanschool.org to learn more about how McLean School supports student challenges in math.