Mathematics
Introduction
Mathematics requires students to interpret symbols, follow multi-step processes, apply procedures, and understand abstract ideas such as algebra, percentages, and probability. For students with dyslexia and or dyscalculia, these tasks can be challenging, not just with reading and writing, but also with memory, sequencing, understanding written problems and mathematical concepts.
Maths can be made more accessible by using visual supports, breaking down tasks into steps, using multisensory activities, concrete materials, and applying the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL).
Key Areas to Support Learning
- Understanding maths words and symbols: Help students learn terms like multiply, square root (√), and mean, and understand symbols such as = and <.
- Following steps in the right order: Support students with solving problems that need more than one step, like working out the area of a shape or solving an equation.
- Remembering maths facts and rules: Use strategies to help recall things like times tables, number bonds, or rules for adding and subtracting negative numbers.
- Reading and understanding word problems: Break down long questions so students can pick out the important information and work out what the question is asking.
- Using graphs, shapes, and diagrams: Give students chances to practise reading charts, bar graphs, pie charts, and working with shapes in geometry.
- Laying out maths work clearly: Support students in writing their working-out neatly, using one step per line, so they don’t lose their place or make mistakes.
- Explaining their thinking: Encourage students to show their working out clearly.
Practical Teaching Strategies
- Break tasks into manageable steps: Use worked examples, flowcharts or numbered stages to model solving equations or applying formulae.
- Pre-teach and reinforce vocabulary and symbols: Use glossaries with symbols, visual cues, and plain English definitions. Create ‘Maths Mats’ with commonly used terms and formulas.
- Use structured templates: Provide layout templates for long division, algebra steps, or coordinate plotting to reduce spatial disorganisation.
- Incorporate multisensory learning: Use manipulatives (e.g., algebra tiles, fraction bars), graphing software, tactile resources, and visual models (e.g., number lines, Venn diagrams).
- Apply UDL principles: Present content through diagrams, animations, verbal explanations, and interactive activities. Allow different ways to show understanding (e.g., oral explanations, drawing diagrams, using apps).
- Use assistive technology: Support learning with apps like Equatio (for mathematical notation), text-to-speech tools for word problems, and Quizlet for vocabulary revision.
- Model and explain problem-solving strategies: Talk through thought processes step-by-step, highlighting decision-making and error-checking strategies.
- Embed retrieval and spaced practice: Regularly revisit key concepts through mini-quizzes, flashcards, or ‘last lesson / last week / last month’ recaps.
- Highlight patterns and structure: Use colour coding to group terms in algebra, label axes on graphs clearly, and show repeated steps in geometry.
- Scaffold problem-solving: Use visual organisers like “What do I know? What do I need to find out? What steps will I take?” to plan solutions.
- Teach memory strategies: Use mnemonics, rhyming patterns, and repetition to help students remember key vocabulary.
- Incorporate group work: Give students the opportunity to do Think-Pair-Shares with their peers to reinforce learning in a supportive way, assign clear roles (e.g. speaker, researcher, scribe, time-keeper).
- Use error analysis: Help students learn from mistakes by comparing incorrect and correct workings, promoting a growth mindset.
Tools & Resources
- Oide Mathematics Support: Graphic Organisers, Teaching and Learning Support
- NCETM (UK): Resources and videos on teaching for mastery in mathematics.
- BBC Bitesize Maths:Visual explanations and step-by-step videos across topics.
- Khan Academy: Free video tutorials and practice questions across all maths levels.
- Alison.com:Free on-line course in Project Maths with video tutorials of lessons at JC and LC levels in both ordinary and higher levels. The site also covers topics in Physics and Chemistry.
- Equatio: An assistive tool that allows students to type, speak or handwrite mathematical notation.
- Maths Week Ireland: Games, puzzles, and classroom resources to promote enjoyment of maths.
- Quizlet : Custom flashcards for scientific vocabulary, formulae, and definitions.
- Scoilnet Maths: A wide range of resources aligned with the Irish curriculum.
- StudyClix: Topic-based exam questions and solutions for Junior and Leaving Certificate Maths.
- Desmos: Free online graphing calculator and interactive activities.
- IXL / Mangahigh: Curriculum-aligned interactive maths practice.
- Less Stress, More Success (Maths Editions): Accessible revision guides tailored to the Irish system.
- Speech to text/ Text to speech: Supports for reading and writing text.
- AI Tools: EduAide, Magic School, Brisk (for differentiation), NotebookLM (turns notes into podcasts).
- Dyslexia Ireland’s whole school resources
Contact & Support
- Use your school’s Student Support File to personalise learning goals and supports.
- Liaise with your school’s AEN / SEN Coordinator for additional adjustments or accommodations.
- Dyslexia Ireland: www.dyslexia.ie
- National Council for Special Education (NCSE): www.ncse.ie