The Parallels of Math and Reading The fields of mathematics and reading both have basic skills.  In both subjects, all students must master all of the basic skills to work productively.  But, while the skills necessary to read well are well known since the publishing of the Report of the National Reading Panel in the year 2000, the equivalent skills to learn mathematics are less well known and understood. Most elementary teachers are competent in helping children acquire reading skills. However, when it comes to teaching mathematics, when of they feel inadequate in the task. If they understood that they are parallels in acquiring numeracy and literacy, they will feel quite adequate. Yes, there are unique characteristics in the two, the parallels are quite informative and useful.