Use math manipulatives to make abstract concepts more concrete. Math manipulatives can be made in the classroom or purchased at teacher supply stores and include number lines, base 10 blocks and movable shapes. All of these items help children with language barriers understand mathematics concepts. Use math manipulatives in conjunction with your lesson plan, demonstrating and explaining the concepts you are teaching as you go.
Write numerical figures and symbols on blackboards or worksheets when demonstrating mathematical concepts. This will help to aid the students in number identification and will also help them grasp mathematical concepts more quickly, preventing frustration. When explaining new or difficult concepts point to each number or symbol written on the board as you explain it.
Use worksheets that write problems out in numerical equations so students can practice division, subtraction, multiplication and addition without becoming too confused or frustrated. Introduce word problems only as the ESL student's confidence and comprehension increase and keep the language in the word problems simple.
Help children with their comprehension skills by using flash cards with numerical figures on the front and the English word for the figure written on the back. Practice with the ESL students, by showing them the numerical figure for a number and having them identify the name. They can also list the numbers that come before and after the one shown in order to help with number placement and ordering and comparing numbers, a common 3rd-grade math concept.
Use clocks to help the student practice telling time and speaking about the clock while practicing 3rd-grade mathematical concepts. Set the clock to one time and have the student say or write the time, then add or subtract a half an hour or 15 minutes to find a new time, or have them count by fives or 10s around the clock. This will help sharpen addition and subtraction skills while increasing your student's vocabulary.
Use money or play money to help your student learn about the financial system of your country while working on math skills. Teach students to identify quarters, dimes, nickels and pennies by their name. Have them add and multiply the money. Use word problems about purchasing items for advanced ESOL students.
Ask if the child has questions throughout the learning process. Many ESOL students become shy when they do not understand a concept because of a language barrier. Take things slow and encourage practice, while rewarding the student for her hard work.