Dyslexia-How+fonts+and+coloured+paper+can+help

Dyslexia can present many challenges to a teacher when try to best aid a student in their leanring. However there are many simply strategies that can be easily implamented into a lesson such as the use of coloured papers and different size fonts printed on handouts.

Many dyslexic people find that the readability of a piece of text varies greatly depending upon the font (type face or type style) used. The website British Dyslexia Association provides ample information and ideas of fonts that are recommended and used by dyslexic people. (bda,2011)This ideas and stratagies can be easily implamented when a teacher is using handouts, overhead and Interactive white boards.

A teaching strategy that would be helpful for a student with dyslexia would be to provide worksheets on blue paper; this is so the light does not reflect off the bright white paper. Some white paper can be very transparent which make it very difficult for children with dyslexia to read and understand the letters and words. Another strategy that can have a positive effect for children with dyslexia is not writing in a clear and bold font. This is so letters and words are readable and does not cause visual stress. (Foreman 2008) Of course every child with dyslexia will have different reading abilities, and different preferences for fonts, colours and sizes so a teacher must be prepared with work that is easily adaptable. (bda2011)

The British Dyslexia association provide very good ideas and information that any teacher can use to help make learning more accessibale for children with dyslexia. These strategies are basic but can have a positive impact on a child’s learning, however an evaluation must be done to determine the child's specific area of disability. (**BDA**, 2011)While there are many theories about successful treatment for dyslexia, there is no actual cure, but we as teachers must do what we can in the classroom to help.

Below I have listed some examples and strategies form the website.


 * Font**


 * Use a plain, evenly spaced sans serif font such as Arial and Comic Sans. Alternatives include Verdana, Tahoma, Century Gothic, Trebuchet.
 * Font size should be 12-14 point. Some dyslexic readers may request a larger font.

**Headings and Emphasis**


 * Avoid underlining and italics: these tend to make the text appear to run together. Use bold instead.
 * AVOID TEXT IN BLOCK CAPITALS: this is much harder to read.

**Layout**


 * Use left-justified with ragged right edge.
 * Avoid narrow columns (as used in newspapers).

**Writing Style**
 * Use short, simple sentences in a direct style.
 * Give instructions clearly. Avoid long sentences of explanation.

British dyslexia association (2011) [], Website Development by [|Distilled] , date accessed 17th of July

Foreman, P., (2008) Inclusion in Action. (2nd Edition). Cengage learning. p.257