5 Reasons Math is Difficult for Struggling Students

Watch and listen here.

In OG Math insights 1 & 2 we acknowledged that math is challenging for some children and even adults. We explored the 5 Big math ideas as a basis for implementing an Orton Gillingham approach for math instruction. Next we will take a longer journey and explore the many reasons that math can be difficult for struggling students in general classrooms and curriculums. It’s important to know where we go wrong, so we are aware of where we can do better. We will take a deep dive into best practices in later insights. 

5 Reasons Math is Difficult for Some Students

1. Some students view math as they would a worksheet, with answers that are either right or wrong. Although this may be technically right in terms of a final total or correct formula,  math is often more about problem solving which allows for many paths to reach a solution.

2. Still many students come to view math as a system of techniques that they must memorize to get the right answers so they can pass a test or graduate and stop having to study math.

3. Mathematics concepts are cumulative and so is math failure. Failure to master one area of mathematics may make it impossible to move ahead into other areas with success.

4. Success in math requires students to use concentration and care. These are work habits that they may not have developed yet.

5. Math is simplified into abstract concepts represented by symbols. Symbols add to math’s power and its shortcuts, but also make it formidable to learn

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