Dyslexia

Dyslexia is a common learning need that can cause problems with reading, writing and spelling.

It's a type of specific learning difficulty, which means it causes problems with certain abilities used for learning, such as reading and writing, however, intelligence is not affected.

What can we do to help?

More often than not, dyslexic tendencies / difficulties can be overcome in the classroom and at home by using different strategies. It's important to remember that every dyslexic learning is unique, so the same is true of strategies. Generally speaking, all learners can benefit from the top six dyslexia tips:

1. Use a sans serif font such as Comic Sans or Arial. More information about the vast array of dyslexia-friendly fonts can be found here.
2. Use a pastel coloured background (yellow, green, blue) with black text. Some learners may choose to use an overlay to support reading from a book, handout or textbook.
3. Use bullet points or numbered lists to break-up large sections of text. Where large sections of text are unavoidable (e.g. in a book) use a ruler to keep your place.
4. Explicitly teach and discuss new vocabulary.
5. Include metalinguistics (breaking words down, looking for common pre/suffix, exploring root words, linking common vocabulary) in learning.
6. Explore and teach memorable spelling techniques e.g. "There's a pie in piece of pie".

Who else can help?

Sometimes dyslexic learners may benefit from additional support in order to explore, acquire and develop strategies that can help them across learning. Initial concerns or requests for support should be raised with the relevant PT Guidance or Mrs Adair (PT GIRFEC & Safeguarding).