As we begin a new Academic Year, we will start to identify those learners in our class who are suffering from Maths Anxiety. We often see this from the first lessons with the children where we can notice fear of failure, avoidance of math tasks, and difficulty concentrating during math lessons. The best way to address math anxiety is by fostering a positive and productive learning environment.

Math anxiety is often caused by a combination of factors. As adults we can identify with these as well. They normally involve negative experiences with math, perceived lack of ability, and societal stereotypes about math “When am I ever going to need this” and “I was never any good at maths!”. This often creates a self-fulfilling prophecy, where students' beliefs about their math skills can influence their performance and further reinforce their anxiety.

So lets look at 5 strategies for overcoming math anxiety:

1. Create a Positive Math Environment: Foster a supportive and encouraging classroom atmosphere where students feel safe to ask questions and make mistakes. One of my favourite techniques to do this is to create a “my favourite mistake of today” board. It is important for children to understand that making mistakes is a good thing, as learning from these mistakes make us stronger mathematicians. With this we should provide positive reinforcements and celebrate all students' successes.

2. Build Confidence through Success: Break down math problems into smaller, manageable steps to help students feel more confident in their ability to solve them. Provide opportunities for students to practice and reinforce their understanding of concepts. This is one of “Rosenshine’s Principles of instruction” and a key factor in teaching for Mastery. In taking these small steps pupils are able to keep up with the learning, making them feel success.

3. Use Concrete Manipulatives: Concrete manipulatives can help students visualize abstract mathematical concepts and make them more accessible. Using hands-on materials can reduce anxiety and improve understanding. It allows pupils to see the maths and understand the underlying structure of a concept. Remember the EEF Mathematics guidance “There must be a clear rationale for using a particular manipulative or representation to teach a specific mathematical concept.”

4. Encourage Growth Mindset: Promote a growth mindset, where students believe that their abilities can be developed through effort and practice. Emphasize that mistakes are learning opportunities and that everyone can improve their math skills.

5. Provide Support: Offer additional support and resources for students who are struggling with math. One of the best ways to get pupils to feel confident is by giving pre- teaching. Pupils will enter the maths lessons with knowledge already about the content and will feel less anxiety about what is to come.

For more information look at this webpage- https://www.nationalnumeracy.org.uk/what-issue/about-maths-anxiety