$Abstract math symbols floating above a group of diverse adolescents.$

Decoding Math Skills: What Every Parent and Educator Needs to Know About Adolescent Math Abilities

Soraya Malik in Mind & Education August 2025 • 4 min read.

"A new study reveals the critical factors influencing math proficiency in Mexican adolescents, offering insights into how we can better support math learners."

Mathematics is a foundational skill, crucial not only for academic success but also for navigating everyday life. Yet, many adolescents struggle with math, impacting their future opportunities. Understanding the specific challenges and strengths students face in mathematics is essential for educators and parents alike.

A recent study published in the Journal of Psychoeducational Assessment sheds light on the mathematical abilities of Mexican adolescents, providing valuable insights that can be applied more broadly. The study, titled “Psychometric Properties of the WRAT Math Computation Subtest in Mexican Adolescents,” explores the factors influencing math proficiency and offers a framework for identifying and supporting students who may be struggling or excelling in math.

This article breaks down the key findings of the study, translating complex research into practical advice for parents and educators. We’ll explore the specific math skills that pose the biggest challenges, discuss the role of gender, and offer strategies to help adolescents build a solid foundation in mathematics.

Unpacking Adolescent Math Skills: Arithmetic, Algebra, and Beyond

Abstract math symbols floating above a group of diverse adolescents.

The study involved 1,318 first-year Mexican high school students who completed the Math Computation subtest of the Wide Range Achievement Test–IV (WRAT-IV). This subtest assesses a range of math skills, from basic arithmetic to algebra. Researchers analyzed the results to understand the underlying structure of mathematical abilities in this age group.

The findings revealed that adolescent math skills can be broken down into three key areas:

Arithmetic: This includes basic operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division with multi-digit numbers, with and without decimals.
Fractions and Basic Algebra: This area involves solving arithmetic problems with like fractions and simple equations.
Rational Numbers: This includes transforming decimals to percentages or fractions and solving arithmetic problems with proper fractions.

Interestingly, the study found that students showed varying levels of proficiency in these three areas. Arithmetic was generally the strongest area, while rational numbers posed the biggest challenge. This highlights the importance of targeted instruction and support to help students master these critical skills.

Empowering Math Learners: Practical Strategies for Parents and Educators

The insights from this study offer actionable strategies for parents and educators looking to support adolescent math learners. By understanding the specific areas where students struggle, we can provide targeted interventions and create a more supportive learning environment. Remember, building a strong foundation in mathematics is crucial for future success, and with the right approach, every student can achieve their full potential.

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.1177/0734282918809793, Alternate LINK

Title: Psychometric Properties Of The Wrat Math Computation Subtest In Mexican Adolescents

Subject: General Psychology

Journal: Journal of Psychoeducational Assessment

Publisher: SAGE Publications

Authors: Roberto A. Abreu-Mendoza, Yaira Chamorro, Esmeralda Matute

Published: 2018-11-19

Everything You Need To Know

What specific test was used to assess the math skills of adolescents in the study, and what range of math abilities did it cover?

The recent study utilized the Math Computation subtest of the Wide Range Achievement Test–IV (WRAT-IV) to evaluate the math skills of Mexican adolescents. This assessment tool covers a spectrum of mathematical abilities, ranging from basic arithmetic to algebra. By analyzing student performance on this subtest, researchers could gain insights into specific strengths and weaknesses within the adolescent population, thereby informing targeted educational strategies.

What are the three key areas of adolescent math skills identified in the study, and what does each area entail?

The study identified three key areas of adolescent math skills: arithmetic, fractions and basic algebra, and rational numbers. Arithmetic involves basic operations. Fractions and basic algebra includes solving problems with like fractions and simple equations. Rational numbers includes converting decimals to percentages or fractions. Understanding these distinct areas enables educators and parents to focus their support and instruction more effectively.

In which area of math skills did the adolescents show the strongest proficiency, and in which area did they face the greatest challenges?

According to the research, Mexican adolescents generally demonstrated the strongest proficiency in arithmetic, which includes basic operations. However, they encountered the greatest challenges with rational numbers, which involves decimals, percentages, and fractions. This disparity suggests a need for instructional strategies that provide additional support and practice in the area of rational numbers to enhance students' overall math competence.

How can the insights from the study be used to support adolescent math learners in practical ways?

The study's findings highlight the importance of understanding the specific areas where students struggle in mathematics. This understanding enables parents and educators to offer targeted interventions and create a more supportive learning environment. By focusing on areas such as rational numbers, educators can tailor their instruction to address specific challenges, ultimately fostering a stronger foundation in mathematics for all students.

What role did the WRAT-IV Math Computation subtest play in the study, and what are the broader implications of using such a tool in education?

The WRAT-IV Math Computation subtest played a vital role in this study by providing a standardized measure of math skills across a wide range of abilities. While the study focused on Mexican adolescents, the implications of using such a tool extend to broader educational contexts. It emphasizes the need for reliable and comprehensive assessments that can accurately identify areas of strength and weakness in students' mathematical understanding, enabling educators to tailor their teaching methods effectively.