Science at KS1 and visual impairment

The impact of a visual impairment on learning is similar across subject areas. Begin by reading the information on challenges faced by visually impaired children across the curriculum and at all levels, plus the suggestions for inclusion. 

You can:

• Support the child with clear speech and logical connections between concepts and activities. Explain why the child is undertaking a task - it will help them to build practical experiences on to their expectations.
• It is hard for a visually impaired child to work out what is happening when practically exploring a concept, so providing more detail is helpful, as long as the vocabulary you use is clear.
• Make sure the light is good and colour is used as much as possible (for the pupil with some vision). For example, if experimenting with water or ice add food colouring, so it is more visible.
• Use buddies for practical work.  Help the buddy with possible tactics; discuss things they can do and things the visually impaired pupil may struggle with.
• Record work using textured symbols, bright colours and good light (for a pupil with poor vision). Voice-activated software can be helpful.
• Give instructions in short simple sentences, to help the pupil remember sequences, and use verbal prompts.
• Try the Talking PEN or PEN Pal. This is a scanner device, which records sound and stores it as self-adhesive dots. The dots can be stuck onto books and objects. When the scanner (like a big pen) is moved across a spot, it plays the recording. As well as books, it can be used to label drawers to help pupils find equipment.