Two common math disabilities are the difficulty in recalling basic math facts and arithmetic weakness. Students who continue to count on their hands or scribble circles for facts such as 8 + 4 may have trouble with basic facts. Students who have arithmetic weakness understand the math concept, but perform computation incorrectly.
Students who have difficulty with mental computations should use paper and pencil to write and solve math problems. Provide a longer time for students to complete tests. Provide worksheets with completed examples for students to model. Video tape math lessons for students to view again at a later date. Also provide students with graphic organizers to help them organize and process mathematical concepts and procedures.
A disconnect between informal math learning and formal math numbers, symbols and language is the hallmark of a written symbol learning disability. Learning math using pencil, paper and abstract concepts are difficult for this learner.
Students who have difficulty with math language could give their answers verbally. When introducing new math concepts teachers should use concrete examples. Move onto abstract examples once hands-on examples have been mastered. Provide verbal instruction for every step of written instruction. Students who have visual disabilities should use a talking calculator and calculators with large display screens.
Dyscalculia is a term used to cover a broad range of math learning disabilities. In general, people who have dyscalculia confuse math symbols and concepts. Classic signs of dyscalculia include reading and language skills that are far above math skills, and difficulty with basic computation.
Use graph paper to help students organize math concepts. Demonstrate that math problems can be solved by more than one method. Draw pictures to represent word problems. Provide step-by-step instructions. Allow students to use an abacus as a concrete mathematics tool. Use a variety of assessment tools from tests to projects and oral presentations. Allow students to express their answers in mathematical terms, everyday language, verbally, written, and artistically. For example, students can write and act out plays that represent a math concept.