Sunday, February 24, 2013

Assisting Reading Infographic


For more information about assisted reading see my Assisted Reading blog series called 10 Principles for Assisting Reading.

This infographic was created using tools from www.easel.ly


Monday, February 4, 2013

Book Review - Dyslexia and Inclusion

Dyslexia and Inclusion: Classroom approaches for Assessment, Teaching and Learning (2nd Ed.) by Gavin Reid

Dyslexia is a vexing problem for many children and one that can cause lifelong difficulties with reading. Gavin Reid's book has the potential to influence teachers and parents and make a positive contribution to the overall wellbeing of struggling readers.

A key issue is the inclusion of students in the mainstream classroom and the inclusive practices that support these students. This will be of particular concern for many teachers who may feel they do not have specialised skills and knowledge to adequately assist these children.

I enjoyed reading this book because it was easy to read and the ideas were expressed clearly and succinctly. No doubt it will make a valuable contribution to the body of knowledge related to the area of literacy and learning difficulties. As the title implies, the focus is on dyslexia and inclusion in mainstream classrooms. Reid notes that dyslexia is clouded by confusion and misconceptions. However, he is able to chart a clear course though this mine field of uncertainty and conflicting ideas. He does this by taking a realistic and balanced view of the current body of research and proven practice.

After reading this book the reader should come away with a good understanding of the nature of dyslexia and gain the knowledge required to assist individuals with reading difficulties. He acknowledges that children with dyslexia exhibit a range of learning problems. Despite these differences he gives the teacher a range of practical teaching tips and ideas to help those  struggling with reading.