What is tested as part of a Dyscalculia screener?

Dyscalculia is a specific and persistent difficulty with understanding numbers which can lead to a diverse range of difficulties with mathematics. It will be unexpected in relation to age, level of education and experience and occurs across all ages and abilities.

At Dyslexia UK we have experienced dyslexia assessors who conduct extensive dyscalculia screening assessments. Whilst the screener cannot diagnose dyscalculia, it can provide an explanation for an individual's difficulties in school, university or the workplace. In addition, the assessment report will provide a detailed examination of the person's strengths and difficulties. Personalised recommendations for school/university/workplace, specialist teaching and home will be provided.

The dyscalculia screening usually take around two hours and includes assessment of:

• Underlying ability: Non-Verbal underlying ability.
• Information Processing: Working memory, Visual and Phonological Processing speed.
• Academic attainment: Maths assessments both timed and untimed.
• Numerical assessments: Number sense, sequencing, mathematical vocabulary.

What is the dyscalculia screener process?

Once you have contacted us to express an interest in a screener, we will pass your details to an assessor. They will contact you to arrange a time and date for the remote screening service. They will send you a background information questionnaire that will also give details about the remote assessment process as well as an invoice for payment. Please return the questionnaire at least 24 hours before the assessment.

On the day prior to the screener, the assessor will send you a zoom link.

Whilst they are probably unlikely to be able to provide immediate feedback, a written report will be sent within 3 weeks of the screener.

Where can I find further information about dyscalculia?

Steve Chinn and Ronit Bird both have very useful resources and videos regarding dyscalculia, including checklists and strategies that can help people with dyscalculia.

https://www.stevechinn.co.uk/dyscalculia/what-is-dyscalculia

Dyscalculia - A Parent's Guide (YouTube) https://youtu.be/_djdPIZrFno

https://youtu.be/GstqJ5sEEoo