Learner Diversity

DYSCALCULIA

Dyscalculia is a specific learning difference that affects a person’s ability to understand and work with numbers. Just as dyslexia relates to reading, dyscalculia relates to math. It does not reflect a student’s intelligence or effort; rather, it affects how the brain processes numerical information. 

Students with dyscalculia may experience difficulties with: 

• Recognising numbers or understanding number quantity 

• Learning basic math facts (addition, subtraction, etc.) 

• Telling time, sequencing steps, or understanding schedules 

• Estimating quantities or comparing amounts 

• Remembering procedures for solving math problems 

• Working through multi-step problems 

Because math is part of everyday life—shopping, cooking, time management—these challenges can extend beyond the classroom. 

How We Support Our Students at Borinya:

We use physical objects (like counters, beads, or blocks), visual models, and interactive activities to help make abstract ideas more concrete. Staff break tasks into smaller steps, use checklists, or provide structured methods for solving problems. We always allow more time for finishing tasks which helps students focus on understanding rather than rushing their work. We use lots of tools such as number lines, multiplication charts, and calculators support learning without reducing high-level thinking. By repeating the same method, language, and sequences we build familiarity and confidence. Students have individual learning goals, small-group support and additional instruction targeted to their needs.