Prerequisite and Support Skills For Mathematical Learning

Learning problems in math have a long list of problems. When a child is learning math concepts four vital components are involved simultaneosly: cognitive development, learning style, preparation in pre-requisite and support skills, and emotional security.

Key Point: When a parent asks you, " What can I do to help my child learn mathematics, especially if I have limited math skills?" Tell them to only help with math only if you feel comfortable.

Of the many reasons that contribute to the learning difficulty the one that can be dealt with the most easily and with little special training is pre-requisite and support skills.

Classification/class inclusion

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Classification of information and objects.

Matching and one to one correspondence

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Ability to show the matching/relationships between two collections.

Ordering and sequencing

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Ability to arrang a collection of objects according to the given attribute or criteria.

Sequential directions

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Ability to follow multi-step directions.

Spatial orientation/space organization

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Ability to relate position of objects, numbers, letters in reference to other objects, numbers and letters.

Estimation

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Ability to see the range of the possible answer.

Visual clustering

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Ability to identify the number of objects in a collection by visually approximating it.

Pattern recognition and extention

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Ability to identify the pattern in a given sequence or collection and extend the sequence or collection by finding the next number or object.

Logical deduction

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Ability to make generalizations and give reasons for the conclusions drawn from the given set of information.