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What is Dyscalculia?
Dyscalculia is an under-researched learning difficulty worldwide and as a result, there is little guidance for teachers on how to provide dyscalculia support in schools. 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.
Many academics have tried to define dyscalculia. The below definitions are the ones most commonly used:
Dyscalculia is a condition that affects the ability to acquire arithmetical skills. Dyscalculic learners may have difficulty understanding simple number concepts, lack an intuitive grasp of numbers, and have problems learning number facts and procedures. Even if they produce a correct answer or use a correct method, they may do so mechanically and without confidence. (DfES 2001)
A congenital condition: its effects on the learning of numerical skills can be very profound. (Butterworth)
Dysfunction in the reception, comprehension or production of quantitative and spatial information (Sharma).
Numeracy Screening
If your pupils are struggling with numeracy or showing signs of dyscalculia, you can access a free trial of the IDL Numeracy Screener to quickly identify potential difficulties and take the first step towards effective support.
Start Free TrialIndicators of Dyscalculia
There are many indicators of dyscalculia and not all of them are maths related. These include:
- Difficulty with number sense, subitising small quantities, and estimating whether answers are reasonable
- Problems recognising patterns and making generalisations
- Slow processing speed
- Reliance on immature strategies (e.g. counting all instead of counting on)
- Weak short-term and long-term memory, including poor recall of facts and procedures
- Difficulty counting backwards reliably
- Challenges with sequencing, direction, and visual–spatial orientation
- Language difficulties
- Struggles with word problems and multi-step calculations
- Problems understanding money and financial concepts
- Delayed ability to tell the time
Carter's Charity Primary School -Janina CalleryPupils are really enjoying using the program. The results with one particularly hard to motivate have been amazing!
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IDL Phonics
Discover our powerful phonics programme designed to accelerate early reading success.
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IDL Literacy
The award-winning IDL Literacy intervention is a multi-sensory programme boosts reading and spelling ages in just one hour a week. Proven to support learners with dyslexia and other learning difficulties.
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IDL Numeracy
IDL Numeracy is a resource that helps to improve maths ability and build confidence for KS1 and KS2 pupils with dyscalculia and those who are falling behind.
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IDL Wellbeing
IDL Wellbeing is designed to integrate with a whole-school approach to mental health, toughness and behaviour management.
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IDL Literacy Screener
The IDL Literacy Screener is a simple, effective online tool that students and teachers can use to highlight dyslexic-type difficulties.
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IDL Numeracy Screener
The IDL Numeracy Screener has been developed to provide a simple to use online test that will highlight number SEN.
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IDL Multiplication Tables Check
This revision tool prepares learners for the mandatory Multiplication Table Check (MTC), which is now statutory for all primary schools in England.
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FAQs
How do you Identify and Assess for Dyscalculia?
Types of Dyscalculia and Maths Anxiety
IDL Numeracy
How can teachers benefit from using IDL Numeracy in their classroom?