Maths learning is built on a series of steps. This starts first with ‘concrete’ learning, before moving to visual and then to abstract methods.
Concrete learning - support learning using objects to practically understand the concepts (e.g. cubes, counters, beads, stones)
Visual learning - support learning using pictures, diagrams and visual methods (e.g. number lines, dienes pictures, fraction pictures)
Abstract learning - by this stage, children understand what they are doing and why, and are able to apply this knowledge to learning new concepts with no need for concrete or visual support.
It is important not to move too quickly through a child’s learning. Small steps, and keeping learning ‘real’ and secure, is key to success. Time spent making sure they understand, will build secure foundations and be invaluable for building on future learning.
If a child is having difficulty understanding a concept in maths, first support their learning with concrete methods to help them understand what they are doing and why. When they are secure, move to visual and written methods to solve problems, (e.g. drawing pictures and diagrams to help them understand). This will secure their deeper understanding as well as practising a written method to fall back on if they are unsure how to tackle a problem in the future.
Teaching methods and ways to work out problems are explained in the videos.