Many learners find maths hard, and many adults can recall bad experiences with maths in school. Children in school who are experiencing difficulties might say maths is “boring” or “useless.”
Young learners with maths difficulties might take a long time to recognise numbers or patterns or to learn to count. As they get older, they may struggle with concepts like addition or subtraction and later, algebra.. Outside of school, they may struggle with things like telling the time, counting money, or estimating distances.
What is typical?
Learning maths is considered a “developmental skill”, and learners develop maths skills over time. Here’s what you might expect to see at different ages:
- By ages 5: Children can rote count to 10, forwards, associate numbers and quantities between 1 and 55, compare two amounts, and understand simple concepts like big or small and before or after.
- By age 6: Children can rote count forwards to 20 and identify numbers 1 – 20. They should also be able to count backwards from 10.
- By age 7 (end of Grade 1): Most learners can count to 100 and begin to understand addition and subtraction. They should be able to count backwards from 20 and begin to learn to count in twos. They should be able to count backwards from 20. Maths is still concrete, and children may still use their fingers or objects to add and subtract. They should be able to identify number words from one – twenty.
- By age 9. Learners start to understand multiplication. Maths bonds become more automated, and children shouldn’t have to use concrete aids anymore.
- By age 10: Learners learn advanced concepts like fractions, division, and basic geometry. Multiplication of tables 2- 12 becomes automated.
When should I be concerned?
There are several signs that show a learner may be having maths difficulties. These signs can vary based on the learner’s age.
For young learners ages 5 -7:
- Number recognition and counting: Trouble recognising numbers and counting.
- Connecting numbers with words: Difficulty connecting number symbols with words.
- Patterns and ordering: Struggling with patterns or ordering objects.
For older learners (Ages 8 and up):
- Basic maths functions: Difficulty with basic maths functions such as addition, subtraction, and multiplication. Bonds to 20 and times tables to 12 should be automated by 10 years.
- Word problems: Trouble understanding maths concepts in word problems.
- Calculation errors: Making errors in simple calculations.
- Maths homework and tests: Struggling with math homework and tests.
- Counting methods: Using fingers to count even after their peers have stopped.
Other difficulties might include:
- Everyday maths tasks: Trouble with everyday maths tasks like counting money and telling time.
- Remembering numbers: Difficulty remembering frequently used numbers.
- Real-life measurements: Struggling with real-life measurements and directions.
- Mathematical symbols and concepts: Problems with understanding math symbols and concepts.
- Visual maths: Difficulty interpreting graphs, charts, and other visual math representations.
- Time management and focus: Struggles with time management and maintaining focus during maths activities.
- Emotional issues: Experiences emotional difficulties related to mathematics challenges.
- Avoiding maths activities: Avoids engaging in maths-related activities and lacks confidence in math skills.
- Low self-esteem: Experiences low self-esteem related to maths struggles.
What can I do to help?
As an educator, remaining patient and supportive of a learner with mathematics difficulties is key. Here are some things you can try:
- Use visual aids and tools or shapes. Provide tools like number lines, blocks, or charts to help learners understand mathematics concepts. These hands-on materials make abstract ideas more concrete and easier to grasp.
- Break tasks into smaller steps. Simplify complex problems by dividing them into manageable parts. Guide students through each step to build confidence and understanding.
- Incorporate mathematics games. Use games that involve maths skills to make learning fun and engaging. This approach can help learners practice maths in a relaxed setting.
- Relate maths to real-life situations. Connect maths problems to everyday activities, like shopping or cooking. This helps learners see the relevance of maths in their daily lives.
- Provide regular feedback. Give learners immediate and specific feedback on their work. Highlight what they did well and offer simple suggestions for improvement.
- Document learner’s struggles and progress. Keep notes on specific math errors and improvements. This helps track progress and tailor future lessons to address ongoing challenges.
- Communicate with caregivers. Discuss the learner’s difficulties with parents and other educators. Sharing insights can lead to a more supportive learning environment at home and school.
Where to find more information
For detailed information on mental health conditions, visit our guides for health professionals.