Mathematics at KS3 and communication difficulties

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. Key Stage 3 covers years 7-9 (children aged from 12-14 years).

The issues will be similar to those for KS1 and KS2 – but more challenging for a student with communication difficulties as language becomes more focused on mathematical vocabulary.

You can:

• Work with a speech and language therapist on what can be expected in terms of vocabulary and concepts.
• Support all work with the pupil in as visual a way as possible and have a very practically-based curriculum.
• Reinforce concepts in context before moving on and to take very small steps in progressing through the curriculum.