Insights for Parents of Grade 6-8 Kids: Common Math Challenges Encountered by High School Students

Jan 27, 2025 | The Glebe

As the owner of Mathnasium of The Glebe, I’ve worked with students of all ages over the past seven years, helping them overcome their struggles in math. A common pattern I’ve observed among students in high school, particularly those in Grades 9 and 10, is that their difficulties often stem from foundational gaps formed in earlier years.

This blog highlights some of the critical areas where students typically face challenges and explains how building a strong foundation in elementary and middle school can make all the difference.

1. Fractions: The Building Block of Mathematics (Grade 2 - 8)

Understanding fractions is essential but often tricky for students. Struggles can include:

  • Comparing and ordering fractions.
  • Adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing fractions.
  • Applying fractions to problem-solving scenarios.

Fractions aren’t just a skill for elementary school—they’re a foundation for advanced math. High school math often requires a deep understanding of fractions, such as in this example:

This is the kind of complexity that becomes challenging without a strong command of fractions.

For parents passing by our centre on 856 Bank Street, take a look at the fractions problem on our window graphics:

"Halfway through the 2nd quarter, what fractional part of the game is left?"

It’s a fun example that demonstrates how fractions are everywhere in life and math!

2. Order of Operations (Grade 6 - 8)

Many students stumble when solving math problems because they misapply the order of operations (often remembered through PEMDAS: Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication/Division, Addition/Subtraction). This confusion becomes especially problematic when tackling algebraic equations in high school. Knowing the correct sequence for computations ensures accuracy and builds confidence as math grows more complex.

3. Negative Integers (Grade 7 - 8)

Negative numbers are a common source of confusion for students, yet they play a significant role in high school math. Understanding the rules for adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing negative numbers is essential.

For example, consider this Grade 10 question:

Multiply the binomial: (3x - 8y)(6x - 7y).

The common error happens in the last step, where students often assume that multiplying −8y with −7y will remain negative, leading to an incorrect result like −56y2. This misunderstanding arises from a failure to fully grasp the rule that multiplying two negatives always results in a positive.

The correct final answer is:

18x− 21xy − 48xy + 56y= 18x− 69xy + 56y2

Mastery of negative integers is crucial not just for simplifying expressions but for success in algebra, geometry, and beyond.

4. Greatest Common Factor (GCF) and Lowest Common Multiple (LCM) (Grade 7)

Students introduced to GCF and LCM often struggle because they lack a solid foundation in multiplication facts. The increasing reliance on calculators in schools exacerbates this issue, leaving students unprepared for high school topics like factorization. Without a strong understanding of GCF, students can struggle with factoring coefficients, constants, and variables in Grade 10 math.

5. Solving Linear Equations (Grade 5 and Beyond)

Linear equations are introduced as early as Grade 5, but by Grade 9, students are expected to solve them with confidence. Success in solving equations requires:

  • Proficiency in working with fractions.
  • Understanding the order of operations.
  • Comfort with computing negative integers.

When foundational skills are weak, these higher-level concepts feel overwhelming and unattainable.

How to Set Your Child Up for Success

The good news is that these challenges are preventable and reversible with the right support. Early intervention, consistent practice, and personalized instruction can make all the difference. At Mathnasium of The Glebe, we specialize in identifying and filling these gaps to ensure your child has the skills and confidence to excel.

We invite you to book a free, no-obligation assessment to understand where your child stands and how we can help. Our centre, located at 856 Bank Street, Ottawa, ON, K1S 3W3, is ready to support your child in building the strong foundation they need for success in math.

Contact us today to get started! Together, let’s make math make sense for your child.