dyscalculia

DefinitionDyscalculia refers to the difficulty to understand math concepts and to perform math operations. Prevalence is estimated to be between 3-6 percent of the population.

CharacteristicsDifficulty understanding the concept of

numbersDifficulty understanding the arithmetical signsDifficulty adding or subtracting numbers Difficulty remembering sequences Difficulty telling the time Difficulty following directions they may reverse or transpose numbers

How to identify students with dyscalculia

It is possible for evaluators to determine if a child has dyscalculia through general types of diagnostic math assessments, reviews of student work, and cognitive assessments.

Dyscalculia Screener is a PC-based program designed for educators and therapists seeking to identify dyscalculic tendencies in their students, ages 6-14

Causes

Weakness in visual processing

Deficits in working memory

Difficulty sequencing or organizing

informationDevelopmental problem associated with the

inferior parietal lobe.Genetic factors.Developing a phobia of math

Instructional Techniques and Accommodations

Always move from instruction to restricted practice, in which it is hard for the pupil to make an error.

 Ask lots of specific questions to explore learning.  Constantly change the methods of teaching to suit the

situation.  Correct all errors and give hints rather than straight answers.  

Instructional Techniques and AccommodationsEncourage shared learning.

Use visuals and key words as reminders of the whole skill or topic that has been taught.

 Use a multisensory approach: free math songshttp://www.kidsknowit.com/educational-songs/index.php?

topic=Mathhttp://www.songsforteaching.com

References

Badian, 1999; Gross-Tsur et al., 1996; Lewis et al., 1994

www.dyscalculia.me.uk

www.ncld.org

www.dyscalculia.org

www.aboutdyscalculia.org

www.as.wvu.edu/~scidis/dyscalcula.html