Mathematics at KS1 and hearing impairment

The National Curriculum for maths 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 effects of hearing impairment have a similar impact throughout the key stages. Read the information on challenges faced by hearing impaired children across the curriculum and at all levels, plus the suggestions for inclusion. Also read the issues relating to maths at P levels 4-8.

You can:

• Reinforce all work through practical applications so the concepts are shown as visually as possible: teacher input that is practical will help prevent misunderstandings.
• Use support staff effectively with the hearing impaired pupil, encouraging the pupil to repeat new vocabulary and instructions for activities.
• Try using a checklist for the pupil, which includes key vocabulary and takes the activities through in separate stages. Use very clear language in short phrases and one-step instructions. This will reinforce new vocabulary visually and give confidence by ensuring they are clear about what they need to do. If they have the checklist on the table with them they can refer to it. They can tick each item as they achieve it.