Ask for Ways to Support Individuals with Dyslexia

The best ways to accommodate dyslexia focus on reducing barriers to learning while leveraging strengths, providing tools for success, and fostering confidence. Here are key strategies:

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1. Provide Extra Time:

• Allow extended time for reading, writing, and tests to accommodate slower decoding and processing.

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2. Use Assistive Technology:

• Tools like text-to-speech software, speech-to-text programs, audiobooks, and spell-checkers help bypass challenges and improve efficiency.

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3. Offer Alternate Formats:

• Provide text in accessible formats such as audiobooks, videos, or print with larger fonts and spacing.

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4. Focus on Structured Literacy:

• Use explicit, multi-sensory teaching approaches, like Orton-Gillingham, to strengthen reading and spelling skills.

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5. Provide Note-Taking Assistance:

• Offer class notes, use note-taking apps, or allow audio recording of lectures to reduce the burden of writing.

 

6. Allow Oral Responses:

• Permit verbal answers instead of written ones for assignments and tests.

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7. Simplify Instructions:

• Use clear, concise instructions and repeat or rephrase if needed. Break complex tasks into smaller, more manageable steps.