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What is Dyscalculia? Find out how to identify and assess it

12/03/19

Dyscalculia is an under-researched learning difficulty worldwide and as a result there is little guidance for teachers on how to support students with the condition. We would like to take this opportunity to provide you with some valuable insights into dyscalculia the indicators and how to assess it. It is estimated that between 5% and 8% of children have dyscalculia.

 

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What is Dyscalculia?

Many academics have tried to define dyscalculia. The below definitions are the ones most commonly used:

Indicators of Dyscalculia

There are many indicators of dyscalculia and not all of them are maths related. These include:

How do you Identify and Assess for Dyscalculia?

There are numerous ways to test for dyscalculia. Below are the most popular ways:

Types of Dsycalculia and Maths Anxiety

There are many forms of dyscalculia including Acalculia (difficulty performing simple mathematical tasks) and Pseudo Dyscalculia (a belief they cannot succeed in maths). Many pupils also suffer from maths anxiety which causes them to lose confidence.

Overcoming maths anxiety can be tough but these techniques are important to bear in mind:

IDL Numeracy

IDL Numeracy our maths software resource has been developed to help teach those with dyscalculia along with low-attaining learners in mathematics. Since its launch in September 2018 we are happy to announce that over 2350 schools are now enjoying the benefits of the programme.

Each lesson in IDL is made up of one of the following mathematical principles: Bonds; Counting; Sequencing; Shapes & Patterns; Number Value; Place Value & Arithmetic. With over 2250 lessons on the programme the mathematical puzzles are presented in a fun and easy way.

“Our school was privileged to have an early insight into the IDL Numeracy our students have engaged successfully with its approach and we saw immediate progress being made.” Etz Chaim Boys School

We hope you’ve found this blog useful. If you would like to find out more about how IDL Numeracy can help your students with dyscalculia or maths anxiety and to request a free trial please click here. For more information on our Dyscalculia Screener and to request it for your school free of charge please click here.