Mathematics at KS2 and visual 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. Key Stage 2 (KS2) covers years 3-6 (children aged from 8-11 years).

The extent of a child’s visual impairment will determine what sort of support is needed. The additional challenges for KS2 involve the way material is recorded; use of charts and diagrams, the emphasis on mental methods and measuring.

You can:

• Display charts, diagrams and any other resources in large format on an interactive whiteboard, for a child with some sight. Experiment with different background colours to get the best effect.
• For a child with no functional vision try a moon-writing machine (it photocopies text, giving it a texture).
• Cut out the important shapes so the child can feel relative lengths.
• Liaise with a teacher for visually impaired children about special equipment for measuring. Investigate talking scales and measuring wheels and jugs which produce a sound when filled to a specific level.

Now you might like to look at:

• Mathematics and visual impairment at key stage 1
• Mathematics and visual impairment at key stage 3