Teaching Guidelines for dyslexic students
Effective teachers of dyslexics keep several guiding principles in mind. A student with dyslexia can be a positive, contributing, and valued class member is an intelligent person who does not learn in the same way as others learns by doing often has trouble remembering
Strategies and Adaptations
Effective teaching strategies and adaptations can help dyslexic students be more successful. Consider how you might use the following ideas to help dyslexics build the skills they need to overcome the disability.
Your initial goal should be to reduce the overall reading, writing, and spelling load, while increasing the self-confidence of the student. Provide a daily outline of schedules, goals, and lecture notes.
Use a sans serif font (such as Arial or Verdana) to reduce clutter on visual aids.
Print on colored paper to reduce glare.
Boldface key words.
Show the whole picture first.
Break information into small, sequential steps.
Conscientiously construct the classroom environment for success.
Be welcoming and encouraging.
Provide a seat in the front.
Support interactions with a peer-helper.
Nurture student's growth and learning.
Utilize helpful technology for additional support.
Tape record lectures with a cassette recorder.
Video tape lessons and demonstrations.
Use audio-taped versions of textbooks.
Make interactive, multimedia learning opportunities available. Present multi-sensory lessons to maximize learning.
Start each lesson with a review of prior learning.
Utilize demonstrations, observations, and experimentations.
Expand lessons beyond visual and auditory learning.
Incorporate kinetic or sensory learning experiences.
Provide hands-on learning activities.
Evaluate homework procedures to lessen the literacy load.
Write assignments in the same place daily or provide a written handout.
Limit the amount to what is absolutely necessary for practice.
Give credit for effort and achievement.
Consider altering evaluation and testing procedures to reduce stress.
Offer multiple-choice tests rather than short answer and essay tests.
Read directions orally.
Allow extra work time and rest breaks.
Accept verbal responses, as well as written.
Recognize all victories and accomplishments to help raise self-esteem.
Praise and commend often. Help students to see their strengths.
Provide opportunities to increase confidence.
Do not tell students that they are not trying hard enough.
Be responsive to your dyslexic student's needs.
Seek teaching methods best suited to the needs of the student.
Play learning games.
Teach students to use logic, rather than relying on memory.
Be flexible!
Be Part of the Solution for a Dyslexic Student
Teaching a student with dyslexia is sometimes a challenge for teachers, but it is also an opportunity to make a difference in a struggling student's life. There are several options for support, in addition to the adaptations you can make in the classroom. Don't hesitate to refer to the special education professional in your school for additional references and support.
Remember that school has probably brought many failures and struggles for dyslexic students. They deserve your attention to help them be as successful as possible. You can be a part of the solution in educating dyslexic students and helping them to achieve the educational goals of becoming independent and life-long learners.