Classroom accommodations for dyscalculia

Dyscalculia can make it hard to understand math concepts or do tasks that involve math. Explore these classroom accommodations for dyscalculia.

Students who have dyscalculia, a specific learning disability in math, can struggle with both simple and complex math topics. can help students work around their challenges.

Here are some common accommodations teachers can use to support students with dyscalculia. You can also download and print a list of these accommodations.

Introducing new concepts/lessons

  • Review what the student already learned before teaching new skills.

  • Teach students to “self-talk” through solving problems.

  • Let the student write out charts or draw sketches to solve problems.

  • Use graph paper to help line up numbers and problems.

  • Give the student a list of the math formulas taught in the class.

  • Use manipulatives like coins, blocks, and puzzles to teach math ideas. Try virtual manipulatives for higher grade levels.

  • Use attention-getting phrases like, “This is important to know because….”

  • Use concrete examples that connect math to real life.

  • Check in frequently to make sure the student understands the work.

  • Use graphic organizers to organize information or help break down math problems into steps.

  • Model how to do the task. Provide a visual example that the student can refer back to during practice.

Giving instructions and assignments

  • Create separate worksheets for word problems and number problems.

  • Highlight or circle key words and numbers on word problems.

  • Give step-by-step instructions and have the student repeat them.

  • Provide charts of math facts or multiplication tables.

  • Use visual aids or manipulatives when solving problems.

  • Let the student use a calculator when computation is not the learning target.

  • Give a rubric that describes the elements of an assignment.

  • Use an extra piece of paper to cover up most of what’s on a math sheet to make it easier to focus on one problem at a time.

  • Give more space to write problems and solutions.

  • Break down worksheets into sections.

  • Limit the amount of information needed to transfer to paper by including tables, graphs, or number lines on the worksheet. 

  • Provide checklists for common multi-step procedures.

  • Break down large assignments into smaller, more manageable parts.

  • Give extended time on lengthy assignments or projects.

  • Provide checkpoints on large assignments to offer feedback

Completing tests

  • Give extended time on assessments.

  • Provide a quiet room with limited distractions for taking tests.

  • Give access to a calculator when computation is not being assessed. 

  • Limit the number of problems on one page and give plenty of space to solve each problem.

What’s next?

Do you have a student who you think has dyscalculia? Explore a day in the life of a child with dyscalculia.

Do you think your child needs extra support in math? Explore questions to ask about math instruction.

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