Learning Disabilities Research

The reading and mathematics achievement and specific mathematical competencies of 74 children were followed over four time points during second and third grades. At the beginning of the study, children were classified into one of four groups: moderate mathematics deficiencies but normal reading (MMD-only); moderate mathematics and reading deficiencies (MMD/MRD); moderate reading deficiencies but normal mathematics (MRD-only); and normal achievement in reading and mathematics (NA). Although the MMD-only and the MMD/MRD groups started out at the same level in mathematics, the MMD-only group surpassed the MMD/MRD group over time. A parallel pattern in reading was not observed for the MRD-only and MMD/MRD groups, with children in both groups performing at consistently low levels. Weaknesses in fact retrieval and estimation characterized children with MMD, with or without RD. The MMDonly group showed an advantage over the MMD/MRD group in problem solving. Reading and language strengths help children compensate for deficiencies in selected areas of mathematics.