When working with students struggling in math, every session is a new adventure. Today, I want to share an uplifting story about a 5th-grade student I worked with who is suspected of having dyscalculia—a condition that presents unique challenges in learning mathematics. Her mom had reached out because she noticed significant challenges in her daughter’s understanding of math concepts, and a diagnostic test revealed she was at about a mid-3rd grade level and struggling with basic numeracy skills. Despite her struggles, this session was a shining example of how personalized learning and an encouraging mindset can lead to meaningful progress—even in just 40 minutes.
Starting with Strengths
We began with something she’s actually quite good at—subitizing. For those unfamiliar with the term, subitizing is the ability to quickly recognize the number of objects in a small group without counting. It’s a critical foundational concept for understanding numbers, and I wanted to start the session with something that would build her confidence. She breezed through this part, and her proud smile reminded me why I always like to focus on a student’s strengths first.
From there, we transitioned into multiplication practice. Today, I had her write her 7 times table while saying each fact out loud—a technique I encourage to reinforce both kinesthetic and auditory learning. Repetition is key, but even more so is understanding. She learned what "multiples" meant and practiced creating a list of the first five multiples of seven. This was a new concept, but by the end of this exercise, she confidently told me, "Ahhh, I understand now!"
Building Numbers—Literally
To deepen her understanding of numerals and place value, we engaged in a hands-on activity using craft sticks to build numbers. I guided her to represent the number 42, emphasizing its components: “4 tens and 2 ones.” This tactile approach made the concept more relatable, as we explored how to manipulate the number by adding 30. She correctly knew to add 3 more bundles but struggled to verbalize the new number. That’s when I encouraged her to "prove it" by constructing the number. Through this process of construction, she grasped the transformation to reach the answer of 72, articulating once again, as she touched each place value, “7 tens and 2 ones.” Seeing it click was such a rewarding moment!
As we continued, we tackled the concept of subtraction with regrouping. When we encountered the number 54 and aimed to subtract 7, she skillfully identified the need to “unbundle a ten.” However, the real magic happened when we discussed improper numbers after reaching “forty fourteen.” This unexpected detour didn’t halt our progress; instead, it turned into a valuable learning moment. By equipping her with the tools to understand improper numbers, we fostered a clearer comprehension of the arithmetic processes at play. While unconventional, this approach made regrouping far less intimidating. By simplifying the number afterward, she could clearly differentiate between tens and ones.
This method not only clarified the concept of regrouping but also laid the groundwork for understanding fractions. By the time improper fractions are introduced, recognizing the need to simplify should feel intuitive. She will likely grasp the connection between improper numbers and fractions with ease.
Incorporating vocabulary that bridges multiple concepts is a powerful way to help students link new knowledge to prior understanding. This approach ensures that learning is not only meaningful but also long-lasting.
Pivoting on the Fly
As every good educator knows, adaptability in teaching is crucial, especially when unexpected challenges arise. Despite technical issues that limited our screen sharing, we pivoted seamlessly into a verbal game where we took turns assigning each other digits to create the largest possible number from our given numbers on a place value chart. This improvised activity not only maintained engagement but also solidified her understanding of place value as she learned to strategically place larger numbers to maximize her total.
After building our numbers, she read them out loud (a skill we had been working on), compared them using inequality symbols, and answered place value questions like, “What number is in the hundreds place?” By the time we expanded these numbers into their written, expanded form, I could see her confidence glowing. Concepts that once felt like a mountain now seemed manageable.
Rounding It All Out
Finally, we tackled rounding. While this concept proved the most challenging for her, I introduced a method that was both visual and interactive. We circled the target digit, underlined the “bossy neighbor” to its right, and made it into a game. I had her pretend the bossy number was a balloon she was holding on to—as she counted out the bossy neighbor's number, she would let go of one finger at a time; if she could keep the balloon grounded, the number stayed the same; if the balloon floated up, so did the number. It’s a fun, visual way to reinforce the concept, and though it needed more practice, she showed good progress by the end.
Celebrating Wins
Even with a shorter-than-usual 40-minute session due to login issues and technical hiccups, we packed a tremendous amount into our time together. We covered building numbers, addition, including regrouping, subtraction, including regrouping, multiplication, multiples, creating numbers, place value, reading numbers, comparing numbers, inequalities, expanded form, and rounding, and all of this was done with numbers into the millions. Some may think it’s impossible to cover so much with a struggling student in such a short time, but the key is personalized learning.
We didn’t rush—every new concept was practiced until she could show me she truly understood. This is what true math tutoring is about. For students with dyscalculia or numeracy challenges, it’s not just about teaching math skills; it’s about building confidence, celebrating progress, and creating a space where mistakes are okay because they’re part of learning.
Hands-On Learning in a Virtual World
In today's digital age, many parents might wonder if virtual learning can truly be as effective and engaging as in-person education. At MindBridge Math Mastery, we're not just breaking down these doubts; we're transforming them into awe-inspiring learning experiences. Even though our sessions are conducted virtually, they are profoundly hands-on. To ensure that each child can fully participate from their home, I ask parents to prepare with a few simple but crucial items. Craft sticks and ponytail holders (which prove more durable than rubber bands) are at the top of this list.
During our sessions, each student mirrors my actions with these tools, creating a dynamic classroom atmosphere right from their living rooms. As I model techniques from my home, my students follow along, matching my every move at theirs. This method proves that virtual sessions can be just as, if not more, engaging than traditional in-person ones. The key lies in having a tutor who knows how to bring math to life across the digital divide.
Why Personalized Learning Matters
This session is a testament to the importance of personalized learning. Every student processes information differently, and for those struggling with challenges like dyscalculia, a one-size-fits-all approach simply won’t work. By tailoring lessons to her needs, using hands-on activities and creative strategies, I was able to connect with her in ways that a traditional classroom setting might not offer.
Parents, if your child is struggling with math—or even if you just want to give them a little extra support—I’m here to help. At MindBridge Math Mastery, I take pride in meeting students where they are and helping them develop not just their math skills but their confidence and love for learning.
This session reminded me of why I do what I do. The look on her face at the end of the session—pride, joy, and accomplishment—was a reminder that every struggle overcome is a reason to celebrate.
If this story resonates with you and you’re ready to see your child thrive with personalized math tutoring, contact MindBridge Math Mastery today. Together, we can bridge the gap in numeracy skills and unlock your child’s potential.
Ms. Susan Ardila, a renowned expert in educational development, is committed to helping children overcome learning challenges through personalized tutoring and comprehensive support. Join our community of successful learners and start your child's path to success today.
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