'Special needs' encompasses a very broad spectrum of difficulties in the primary classroom, from lower than expected achievement to clinically identified disabilities. We all find some aspects of learning harder than others. However, it is universally true that some approaches to learning suit each of us better than others. Some teaching helps us to make sense confusing concepts, other approaches just 'mudy the waters'. When learning is particularly hard work anyway, having a variety of approaches available is key to unlocking understanding and encouraging children to stay on task. This visually appealing series of three books (for children at NC Level 1/Scottish Level A aged 5-7; NC Level 2/Scottish Level B aged 7-9; NC Level 3/Scottish Level B-C aged 9-11) will suggest a wide range of kinaesthetic and visual resources and activities through which teachers and learning support assistants in the classroom, or parents at home, can offer alternative learning experiences when more worksheets are clearly not a solution. The books will be full of colourful photographs of things to make and do with the children, to grab their attention and give them ownership of their work. Showing objects and games made by a teacher and children should show that these ideas are well within the grasp of and parent or teacher. Throughout the books, the activities are linked to simple explanations of the relevant maths and the difficulties commonly associated with acquiring and understanding of it; for example, counting to 10 in the Level 1 book and developing addition strategies in the NC Level 2 book. This series addresses the market opportunity for a 'dip in' resource. that offers a range of alternatives to yet more worksheet activities and counting plastic cubes.

 

This book is part of a book series called Extra Help in Maths .

There are 64 pages in this book. This book was published 2004 by Scholastic .

Professor Rose Griffiths teaches at the University of Leicester on the Primary PGCE and on courses for experienced teachers. Rose has worked in pre-school settings, primary, special and secondary schools, and in adult and family education. She is a well-established author of materials for children, parents and teachers. Dr Sue Gifford works in primary mathematics education at the University of Roehampton, with preservice and practising teachers on Masters level courses. She was previously a London primary teacher and a mathematics advisory teacher. Her research interests are in early years mathematics education and children with mathematics difficulties. Dr Jenni Back is a freelance consultant in mathematics education with experience in teaching mathematics to children aged 3 to 19 years. She has been involved in initial teacher education and at Masters level with primary and secondary teachers at Middlesex University and the Centre for Innovation in Mathematics Teaching at Plymouth University.