Mathematics at KS1 and visual impairment – challenges

The National Curriculum for mathematics is statutory in all maintained, mainstream schools up to and including key stage 4. An appropriate version of the curriculum is used in maintained special schools.

The impact of a visual impairment on learning will be much the same throughout KS1. Begin by reading the information on challenges faced by visually impaired children across the curriculum and at all levels, plus the suggestions for inclusion.

You can:

• Support the child with clear speech and logical connections between concepts and activities. Explain why the child is undertaking a task - it will help them to build practical experiences on to their expectations.
• It is hard for a visually impaired child to work out what is happening when practically exploring a concept, so providing more detail is helpful, as long as the vocabulary you use is clear.
• Use buddies for practical work. Help the buddy support the child, mapping out things they can do and things the visually impaired child is going to have difficulty with.
• Use textured resources where helpful.
• Support the written recording of work either through raised writing (moon writing) or through bright colours and enlarged text in good light (for a child with some vision).
• A visually impaired child will find it difficult to learn words connected with time and sequencing (days of week, what day is tomorrow). Try a textured timetable with either moon writing or raised symbols to help.

Now you might like to look at:

• Mathematics and visual impairment at P levels 8
• Mathematics at key stage 2