Examples of Math Difficulties

• Differentiating coins

• Numeral identification

• Telling time

• Differentiating objects based on their individual characteristics (shapes, two-dimensional figures).

• Accurately identifying symbols, and gaining information from pictures, charts, or graphs

• creating number sentences

• Reversing numbers and confusing variables represented as letters

• Noticing and continuing patterns

• Difficulty with regrouping

• Writing and solving equations

• Difficulty completing math steps in the correct order

• Difficulty writing numbers legibly

• Difficulty writing numbers in small spaces

• Difficulty writing problems quickly and neatly

• Difficulty copying shapes accurately

• Difficulty correctly graphing

• Difficulty lining up problems

• Difficulty finishing all problems on the page

• Losing their place on the page

• Difficulty seeing 3 dimensional figures on a 2 dimensional page

• Mixing up parts of different problems

• Difficulty reading a calculator

• Difficulty writing across lined paper in a straight line

• Confusion of similarly shaped letters, numbers, math signs

• Difficulty understanding that certain numbers go together as a unit 14 instead of 1 and 4 and that operational signs (+, x, =) are distinct from numbers. (In math the only clue is spacing).

• Difficulty relating to directional problems in math (up-down-addition), left-right (regrouping)

• Difficulty aligning of numbers on the page

• Difficulty using a number line

• Failing to notice size differences in shapes

• Difficulty visualizing geometric forms

• Difficulty visualizing proportion

Math Strategies:

• Teach student to verbalize the math problem

• Teach student to use technology to help with graphing, writing, etc. (Desmos, Winplot, etc.)

• Help the student find a useful visual strategy such as webs, diagrams, charts and schemas for math operations

Accommodations:

• Use graph paper to aid in aligning numbers

• Clearly space words/problems on a page

• Highlight useful information while demonstrating word problems

• Outline boundaries

• When working on a chalkboard or whiteboard, make sure it is erased well to minimize visual clutter

• Use colored pencils to outline two-dimensional figures on a background

• Use color to highlight differences in signs, variables, and numbers

• When graphing, or using color to present information, use highly contrasting colors

• Use high contrast graph paper and grids

• Use graphic organizers to sequence information

• Vary teaching methods: Provide verbal explanations with visual guides and use oral presentations along with reading

• Color code words on visual notes

• Color code math problems/equations

• Color code written instructions

• Clearly space objects on a page/provide white space on the page

• Allow students to write answers directly on a test

• Use a ruler as a reading or alignment guide

• Use an index card or marker when reading or doing work to blot out distraction of other words/images

• Reduce or eliminate the amount of copy work-provide copies of notes

• When copying is required, do not require speed. Allow extra time for the student to proofread for accuracy

• Reduce the number of visual displays involving manipulatives, drawings, diagrams and charts. Replace them with clear verbal instructions

• Replace copying from the blackboard with providing copies of the notes or assignments

• When copying is required, do not require speed. Allow extra time for the student to proofread for accuracy

• Provide math exercises on worksheets with only a few questions and plenty of white space.