A maths question can be difficult because of one unfamiliar word rather than the calculation itself. Mathematical words often have precise meanings, and some also mean something different in everyday conversation. Understanding the term in context helps them decide what the question requires.

Start with the actual question

When a word causes difficulty, pause before calculating. Ask:

• Which word is unclear?

• What does the question ask you to find?

• Is there an example in the school notes?

• Could a diagram, object or set of numbers show the meaning?

Explain only the word needed for that question. Avoid copying a long dictionary definition.

Use an example and one that does not fit

For a Primary-aged child, show difference by comparing two amounts and finding how far apart they are. Show half by dividing an amount into two equal parts, and contrast this with two unequal parts.

For a young person at Secondary school, explain factor using a number such as 18: 1, 2, 3, 6, 9 and 18 divide it exactly. Contrast 5, which does not. For ratio, connect the notation 2:3 with two parts of one quantity for every three parts of another.

Ask them to explain the term in their own words and apply it to the homework question. The explanation does not need to sound like a textbook, but it must preserve the mathematical meaning.

Do not rely on keyword tricks

Words such as more, difference or share do not always identify an operation by themselves. Read the whole relationship. Ask what each number represents and what must be found before choosing a method.

Keep a short list only of terms that keep coming up. Add one example, diagram or cue beside each word. Remove terms once they use them confidently rather than allowing the list to become another large revision task.

When to contact school

Ask the teacher for the vocabulary used in the current topic if unfamiliar language repeatedly blocks homework. Share the exact term and question. This helps school distinguish a vocabulary difficulty from a problem with the underlying mathematical idea.

Useful free resources

National Numeracy’s Family Maths Toolkit provides activities that discuss maths through everyday contexts. You need to give an email address to get them. School notes and worked examples should remain the first reference for the precise words and way of writing expected in class.

The Maths is Fun Illustrated Mathematics Dictionary is free and explains words such as factor and ratio with pictures and examples. It is written for readers in many countries and sometimes goes further than school, for example by listing negative factors, so check it against the class notes.

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