How We Teach

We work with students who feel like maths “never made sense.” Dyscalculia traits, maths anxiety, kids who are behind in Years 7–10 and need to get ready for Year 11/12. We use a calm, visual, repeatable approach built around CPA: Concrete → Pictorial → Abstract → Application.

1) Concrete

We start with real, touchable ideas. Zero-pair tiles to show that +1 and −1 cancel to 0. Algebra tiles to show like terms physically. Base-10 blocks / number slides to show how ×10 and ÷10 move quantity.

2) Pictorial

We move to drawings and diagrams. We use Singapore bar models for ratio, GST/discount %, and “find the original amount.” We use area models for fractions. We use algebra tiles to help students see what we are representing.

3) Abstract

Only after it’s clear visually do we introduce symbols and rules: simplifying expressions, expanding brackets, factorising, solving equations, linear relationships, exponents/standard form.

4) Application

We finish in context: “How much after 15% discount?” “Is this answer reasonable?” “What does slope mean in this graph?” Students estimate first, then use a calculator, then explain.

Core Visual Tools

  • Number Slide — place value, ×/÷ 10/100/1000, decimals, standard form.
  • Bar Models — ratios, percentages, GST, “find the original price,” multi-step word problems.
  • Zero Pairs — negatives and the idea that +1 and −1 make 0. This is huge for confidence with signed numbers and later algebra.
  • Algebra Tiles — simplifying, expanding, factorising, solving. We literally “box it up” and “unpack it.”

Everything is taught over Zoom with iPad whiteboarding. Every session can be recorded and shared privately so the student can rewatch in their own time.