Hard to teach concepts in mathematics

As an introduction to the project, a discussion document was circulated to the participants, outlining ideas about what makes certain concepts ‘hard to teach’. The document presents how pupils’ ability to grasp mathematical ideas and concepts depends upon their conception of how mathematics works. Different pupils find different concepts in mathematics difficult at different times.

During the research phase of this project, teachers were asked to identify difficult concepts in Key Stage 3 mathematics. These are areas of mathematics which teachers revisited throughout the key stage (and beyond) and which are barriers to progression.

The following concepts were identified.

• Sequences
• Proportional reasoning

For each concept you will find an introductory page, setting out the issues in more detail. Case studies and teaching material generated by the project related to each concept are included for you to view or try out. All the materials have been written by a small team of practising teachers.