When to worry about mathematics

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Math skills are divided into different categories. Within these categories, here are some specific signs that your child may be having difficulty.

Key points

  • Math skills are divided into five categories: number sense and numeration; measurement; geometry and spatial sense; patterning and algebra; data management and probability.
  • Within each category there are specific signs that your child may be having difficulty in that area.

Math skills are divided into different categories. Within these categories, there are some specific signs that your child may be having difficulty.

Number sense and numeration

  • Has trouble recognizing numbers.
  • Has trouble learning number names.
  • Has counting difficulties: does not realize numbers go in order; when counting, does not realize last number counted is the total; only counts objects one way.
  • Does not understand one-to-one correspondence by Grade one.
  • Unable to add and subtract with counters in Grade one.
  • Does not realize that adding and subtraction are reciprocal operations by the end of Grade one.
  • Number facts are slow to develop: child always uses fingers or counters to find the answer.
  • Has trouble learning and remembering computational procedures.

Measurement

  • Cannot learn to tell time or use money.
  • Has trouble reading or answering questions about a simple graph.

Geometry and spatial sense

  • Has trouble learning names of shapes such as circle, square, rectangle, diamond, and oval.
  • Does not know the meaning of terms such as more, less, half, part, or spatial terms like behind, over, beside.

Patterning and algebra

  • Has trouble recognizing and extending recurrent patterns.
  • Cannot put objects in order.
  • Has trouble sorting by colour, shape, size, or texture.

Data management and probability

  • Has trouble representing data on a graph.
  • Is not aware of the frequency of occurrence of different events.
  • Has trouble determining what operation to use to solve math word problems.
Dernières mises à jour: octobre 31st 2009