What is a maths learning gap?
By the BrightHop team · Published · Updated
Short answer
A maths learning gap is a specific skill or idea a child has not yet secured, which makes later skills that depend on it harder. It is narrower than 'behind in maths'. It is also different from a careless mistake, which does not repeat when the question is asked again.
Definition
- Learning gap: a particular skill or concept that has not been learned well enough to build on.
- Prerequisite: a skill that another skill depends on. Knowing the pairs that make 10 is a prerequisite for finding a missing number in an addition.
- Careless mistake: an error the child can correct when asked again, without being taught anything new.
How gaps form
A class moves on when most children are ready. A child who was absent, who learned a trick instead of the idea, or who needed more time on one step may carry a small hole forward. It often shows up a year later in a topic that depends on it.
Gap or careless mistake?
| Aspect | Learning gap | Careless mistake |
|---|---|---|
| Repeats? | Yes, in the same kind of question | No |
| Pattern in wrong answers? | Often, such as always adding the numbers shown | Rarely |
| Fixed by asking again? | No, needs teaching | Yes |
| Response | Teach the missing skill | Slow down, check the working |
Example
A child who writes 7 + 10 = 17 when asked what goes with 7 to make 10 is not being careless. They have not yet secured the idea that 10 is the whole and they are looking for a partner. That is a gap in number bonds, and practising 7 + 10 will not fix it.
Closing a gap
Find it (how to find gaps in your child's maths knowledge), teach that skill, then check with fresh questions. If it still fails, the real gap is probably one step earlier.
Try it
A Skill Check is a short, free way to see whether a gap is likely in a topic. It is an informal check, not a formal assessment.
See the free maths Skill ChecksFrequently asked questions
Does a learning gap mean my child is behind?
Not necessarily. Most children have small gaps. A gap becomes a problem when later topics depend on it, which is why it is worth finding early.
Can a child have a gap and still score well at school?
Yes. A child can answer familiar question types correctly by following a pattern and still lack the underlying idea.
Related guides
Sources
- Australian Curriculum v9: Mathematics, Year 1 (ACARA)
- Inside the Black Box: Raising Standards Through Classroom Assessment (Black & Wiliam, Phi Delta Kappan, 1998)
This guide is written by the BrightHop team from BrightHop’s own teaching approach. It is not independent research and not official curriculum guidance. Curriculum and research statements link to their original sources above. Skill Checks are informal and do not replace a teacher’s advice. About BrightHop