Specialist support for students with Dyslexia and Additional Support Needs
DYSLEXIA SUPPORT FOR ENGLISH
Dyslexia and many other types of additional support needs (ASN) are often reasons that young people struggle with English in school. I have now had many years of experience working alongside students with a range of challenges, from dyslexia to autism.
Dyslexia affects 1 in 10 people, so the chances are in any one school classroom there is more than one student who is dyslexic. It often means reading and writing under pressure (especially copying down work, or dealing with an exam situation) can be very stressful and challenging, and can perhaps put you off English altogether.
There are various ways we can try and make your learning life easier and offer some dyslexia support for your English journey:
– using cream-coloured paper with coloured text (instead of black/white)
– using coloured overlays on top of text (colour can vary depending on person)
– breaking down long passages of text into shorter blocks, with larger line spacing
– verbally going over work to ensure understanding instead of focus on writing
– using a computer where appropriate to type answers or visually explain concepts
– practise ‘reader and scribe’ support: if you require additional support in your English class or exams, that can often involve having a ‘reader’ or ‘scribe’ – somebody who sits with you and reads and/or writes out what you say as your answer to the questions. While having this support is very valuable it can be a little daunting to start with, so I can help you practise getting used to verbalising your answers and growing in confidence at directing someone else to write for you.
Together I hope to encourage you that dyslexia and English DO mix. Dyslexic people often excel in creativity, out of the box thinking and interpretation skills – all of which are excellent for folio work, discussion, creative and persuasive writing!
As for all my students I am committed to making English tuition an engaging and enjoyable part of their learning journey, and to support them as individuals as they identify aspects of English they may excel in and other areas which are more difficult.
Whatever challenges you are facing with dyslexia, don’t be discouraged. I can direct you to the appropriate support you are entitled to from your school or college and would always encourage parents to communicate with the guidance department in the school for more information.
Below are some websites which I have found very helpful and interesting in my work with dyslexic students. There are some great online communities for parents and students with dyslexia who can share their stories and find support – with approximately 1.2 million dyslexic young people in the UK, you are definitely not alone!
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