English at KS2 and visual impairment

The National Curriculum for English is statutory in all maintained, mainstream schools up to and including key stage 4. An appropriate version of the curriculum is used in maintained special schools. Key Stage 1 (KS1) covers years 1-2, children aged 5-7 years.

The challenges in KS2 are similar to KS1 though the level and output of work is increased and this creates more demands on memory and understanding of more complex concepts.

Follow the advice of a teacher for visually impaired children. Set individual targets based on essential learning, and ensure these key concepts are thoroughly supported.

You can:

• Use the interactive whiteboard to magnify to a size that the VI pupil with some sight can see. Try colour coding so that connections are clearer – nouns one colour, adjectives another, and so on. Use a very clear font, without serifs, to make it more visible. Make sure that there is sufficient contrast between light and dark on the screen – use blinds on key windows if necessary, switch off lights if this helps clarity.
• Use rote learning for spellings so they are reinforced aurally: perhaps have a game in which there were mnemonics made up for key words that are difficult to spell or remember in context – perhaps combine with making up a tune to sing it (such as Adverb = A Description (of the) Verb (in) Every Reading Book).
• Use textured resources to aid the visual memory such as using Moon printing for the pupil with very little, or no, sight; record work by using samples of things used in activities (this can link with other curriculum areas such as Science), for example a small piece of sandpaper for a rough surface, plastic for a smooth surface, bubble wrap for a bumpy surface, and so on.