How to help dyslexic students in classrooms

Dyslexia refers to a learning disability, which comprises various symptoms. All these symptoms lead to a person facing problems with language skills, such as reading, spelling, writing, and speaking. Although this disability persists throughout a person’s life, its impact may vary at different stages.

It is quite challenging for a teacher to accommodate dyslexic students in a classroom, where they need to share space with several heterogeneous students. There is a strong likelihood that these students become subject to mental abuse, which could ultimately erode their self-esteem and confidence. Further, dyslexic students may find it hard to keep pace with classroom learning.

Given all these factors, teachers need to be extra cautious about accommodating such students in their classrooms.

The following strategies will guide teachers in this regard.

• Students with dyslexia face difficulties in following directions in the classrooms. So, you should repeat directions if there is even one dyslexic student in your class. After repeating direction, you can ask the student to tell the direction in his/her words.

• Following a daily routine is a good way to help such students adjust to the classroom environment. So, prepare a daily routine and ask all your students to follow it.

• Visual communication works well for dyslexic students. So while teaching, use outlines, charts and various audio-visual presentations as much as possible. It will help such students get a better understanding of the subject. Besides, opt for step-by-step learning and instruction while teaching.

• Every day, before starting a new lesson, give a quick review of the previous lessons. You may involve your students actively in the activity by asking various questions related to those lessons. This method is quite helpful for dyslexic students to remember things.

• For dyslexic students with poor handwriting, you need to take extra initiatives. You can provide them with handwriting lessons regularly. During exams, you can allocate these students extra sheets for writing answers. Always make sure that efforts are afoot to help these students improve their understanding.

• While preparing handouts or worksheets for students, reduce the volume of copy. Instead, highlight key points and activities. It will enable dyslexic students understand and remember your message.

• Last but not the least; bolster a peer friendly learning culture in the classroom. Encourage your students to review their peers’ notes regularly (especially those with dyslexia), study together and more importantly, support them in their study whenever required. It will not only help dyslexic students excel in their study but also encourage them to mingle well with their fellow classmates.

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