Identifying, Assessing and Supporting Learners with Dyscalculia

It is vital to understand the challenges and provide the right support for learners with dyscalculia and specific learning difficulties in mathematics.

The book provides:

• an overview of current research explaining the nature and causation of dyscalculia
• guidance on the identification of dyscalculia
• examples of how to carry out informal and formal assessments
• an explanation of the principles of multisensory mathematics teaching
• an outline of a structured programme (for learners aged 5-14), together with examples of lesson planning and activities.

Designed for teachers specialising in the assessment and teaching of learners with dyscalculia, and those undertaking courses leading to Approved Teacher Dyscalculia (ATD) and Associate Membership of the British Dyslexia Association (AMBDA), the book is useful to any professional looking for an understanding of this area of specific difficulty.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Part I: Dyscalculia and Mathematics Related Difficulties: Setting the Context

1. The Nature of Dyscalculia
2. Differences and Similarities between Dyscalculia and other Mathematics Related Difficulties
3. The Role of Memory in Learning Mathematics
4. Cognitive Processing Difficulties (and Abilities)
5. Mathematics Anxiety

Part II: Identification and Assessment of Dyscalculia

6. Screening Procedures

7. Assessment of Memory

8. Assessment of Basic Number Skills

9. Assessment of Cognitive Thinking Style in Mathematics

10. Assessment for Visual Stress

11. Writing an Assessment Report on Mathematics Related Difficulties

Part III: Planning an Intervention for Learners with Mathematics Difficulties

12. Models of Mathematical Development

13. Planning a Programme of Support

14. Multisensory Mathematics Teaching and Lesson Planning

15. Mathematical Vocabulary

16. Developing Number Concept and Mathematical Relationships

17. Deductive, Inductive and Abductive Reasoning

Part IV: Practical Teaching Examples

18. Using Mathematical Models to Develop Relational Understanding

19. Visualisation

20. Problem-solving Approaches

21. Linking Concepts to Everyday Events

Appendices

• Appendix 1 (a) Digit Span Tasks
• Appendix 1 (b) Visual Sequential Memory: Symbols
• Appendix 1 (c) Visual-spatial Memory: Grids
• Appendix 2: Outline of Programme (and Record Sheet)
• Appendix 3 Solution to Algebra Problem (Grid Method)

"Kelly provides up-to-date and accessible information for practitioners supporting children with dyscalculia. A strength of this book is the integration of theory and practice; providing those working with children the knowledge  base they need to support children effectively."
- Dr Helen Curran, Bath Spa University

"A comprehensive, engaging and accessible book offering pertinent insights into the nature, identification and assessment of dyscalculia along with practical guidance on effective intervention. Essential reading for any professional who wishes to enhance their knowledge and practice in supporting learners who struggle with mathematics."
- Dr Pamela Moffett, Stranmillis University College

"This long awaited text books clearly explains the complexity of dyscalculia while providing practical guidance and helpful examples of how to support learners in the classroom.  Well written, accessible and full of practical ideas, it is an essential text book for anyone interested in supporting learners with SpLD."
- Rhiannon Packer, Cardiff School of Education and Social Policy