Sunday, April 22, 2012
The Gift!
Now that the year is coming to an end, I would like to use this last post to remind each of you to stay focused, motivated, and positive!! I wanted to share this awesome article with everyone in order to help you do so. You can access the full article here http://www.dyslexia.com/. This article caught my attention because it's title reads, "Dyslexia the Gift" so I obviously was extremely intrigued. I liked how this article highlighted some of the positive aspects of having dyslexia, which I feel are very underrated and in some cases, unknown! Individuals who have dyslexia are often highly creative, intuitive and excel at three-dimensional problem solving and hands on learning. Students who have dyslexia often learn best through hands on learning, which is no surprise. The article also went on to say that the best gift of having dyslexia is that individuals who have dyslexia often have "mastery." What the article means by this is that when students who have dyslexia are taught through learning methods which match their thinking style, they can excel and do very well in school, especially in the reading and writing aspects! This webpage also advertises the Davis Dyslexia System, which claims to provide tools to help students overcome reading, writing and attention difficulties though their special methods. Although I am not advertising like the article seems to be, I definitely think the Davis System looks like a cool thing to try out for any individuals interested! I hope each of you get a chance to read this post and glance at the article. I would like you all to bring your opinions to class and be ready to discuss with your classmates what you think. Ask yourself questions like do I see the positive aspects of having Dyslexia? Have I ever been told about the positive aspects of having Dyslexia before? What do I think of the Davis Dyslexia System after reading about it? Would I try the Davis Dyslexia System for myself, why or why not? For more information about the Davis Dyslexia System, you can find it at http://www.dyslexia.com/ddai.htm. Don't forget class, no matter what stay positive and you will succeed. I have faith in you all, have a safe and happy Summer!!!
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Reading Smarts
Although I'm sure all of you are already aware of the importance of reading, I wanted to take the time to post about how important reading really is, and why it's important to take the time to practice correct reading strategies and to make time for it. First, did you know reading can help you in all areas of your academics?! Reading more also can improve your G.P.A. as well as increase your overall knowledge. Now, if that isn't enough to interest you in reading I have a few more benefits to share will all of you. Reading can reduce stress, especially fiction, it can take your mind off of stressful situations. Studies have also shown that reading increases improved analytical thinking, which also helps you to spot patterns better. It's also no secret that reading improves vocabulary and improves spelling! More than talking or direct teaching! Also, increased vocabulary and spelling is necessary to be a good writer, according to http://lifedev.net/2009/06/reading-makes-you-better/, any good writer will tell you that you need to read! Lastly, but not least reading helps prioritize goals. The article states that when you remove yourself from the environment, you begin to see what you really want to do, so it is helpful in identifying goals. I also found a great website for you all to go to for reading books on your computer, having text read to you as well as learn with study tools. You can find all of this at http://www.bookshare.org/_/promo/2010/10/adwords1?gclid=CL7lgpzVv68CFUERNAodXCmjvw I hope you all get a chance to check it out and find it helpful! With all of these great reasons to read, there's no excuse not to!
Monday, April 16, 2012
Audiblox
So as I was looking for something interesting to post about, I stumbled upon success stories about something called Audiblox. Intrigued, I had to do some more research to figure out what it is and what it does. I'm not sure if any of you are familiar with this, but Audiblox is a system of cognitive exercises, aimed to help develop foundational learning skills. A foundational skill is different than a process, strategy, or technique, which interested me even more in what this is and how it can help individuals with dyslexia. Audiblox is supposed to develop and automate the foundational skills of reading, writing, spelling and mathematics. Audiblox is also multi-sensory because individuals learn in all different types of ways. This system is said to be based on solid learning principals and there are numerous positive reviews for it. I am not sure if it works best on younger children, or if it does not matter the age of the student, but it is definitely something to look into. There have even been studies showing that this method works. You can find the full article and results from studies here http://www.audiblox2000.com/improve-reading-spelling.htm and if you are interested in reading success stories from Audiblox, you can find them here http://dyslexia.learninginfo.org/overcoming.htm. Let me know what your thoughts are on Audiblox and be prepared for a class discussion tomorrow!
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
More Resources!
Im sure many of you are aware of the importance of proof reading. When in a bind, I'm sure many of you like myself only use the spell check to catch errors. While re-reading your work is a great way to edit, strengthen reading skills and catch errors, let's face it, it's not always easy and it can be very time consuming. I found some free resources I think you all will like and find helpful.
First, there are many free grammar and spelling software out there to help you such as Ginger Software and Paper Rater. These types of resources are great because they are free, easy to use, and can save you some time when cramming to get work done. For more information, you can find it here http://technodys.blogspot.com/I found these from a very helpful dyslexia blog just like the one I write for this class. This page really focuses on technologies that dyslexics might find helpful, and I really think each of you could benefit from taking a look at it! This brings me to my second point.
There are many blogs and internet support groups for dyslexia, not just technologies such as software and gadgets. I found this site to be very helpful, it has 70 links which are extremely helpful in delivering all different types of support. I highly encourage each of you to try it out! Here is the site http://www.onlinecollegecourses.com/2011/02/14/70-excellent-links-for-dyslexia-support/
First, there are many free grammar and spelling software out there to help you such as Ginger Software and Paper Rater. These types of resources are great because they are free, easy to use, and can save you some time when cramming to get work done. For more information, you can find it here http://technodys.blogspot.com/I found these from a very helpful dyslexia blog just like the one I write for this class. This page really focuses on technologies that dyslexics might find helpful, and I really think each of you could benefit from taking a look at it! This brings me to my second point.
There are many blogs and internet support groups for dyslexia, not just technologies such as software and gadgets. I found this site to be very helpful, it has 70 links which are extremely helpful in delivering all different types of support. I highly encourage each of you to try it out! Here is the site http://www.onlinecollegecourses.com/2011/02/14/70-excellent-links-for-dyslexia-support/
Monday, April 9, 2012
Types of Technology
I'm sure many of you know there are numerous technologies out there designed to help individuals with learning disabilities and more specific, dyslexia. There are certain technologies that can help strengthen specific skills, and ultimately save you time while allowing you not be at a disadvantage. Here is a list which includes certain technologies many with learning disabilities find helpful and useful in terms of school and education. You can find exactly what each of these items do by going to http://www.greatschools.org/special-education/assistive-technology/702-assistive-technology-for-kids-with-learning-disabilities-an-overview.gs?page=all.
- Abbreviation expanders
- Alternative keyboards
- Audio books and publications
- Electronic math work sheets
- Freeform database software
- Graphic organizers and outlining
- Information/data managers
- Optical character recognition
- Personal FM listening systems
- Portable word processors
- Proofreading programs
- Speech-recognition programs
- Speech synthesizers/screen readers
- Talking calculators
- Talking spell checkers and electronic dictionaries
- Variable-speed tape recorders
- Word-prediction programs
I also found a very insightful pamphlet which I think many of you will benefit from reading. It focuses specifically on technology assistance for dyslexics. Some of the technologies this source includes are different types of software (voice recognition, text/screen readers, etc.), hardware options and much more. I really think each and every one of you can benefit and learn many new things just by taking a few minutes to read this. I would like everyone to do so because we will be discussing this pamphlet tomorrow in class as well as discussing our thoughts, so come prepared! You can find the full pamphlet here http://www.dyslexiasw.com/images/pdf/Technology%20Assistance%20for%20Dyslexics.pdf
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
Great Article: The Upside of Dyslexia
As many of you know, Dyslexia isn't a new disorder, there have been evidence of "word blindness" documented centuries ago. But his news you may find very surprising! The latest findings on dyslexia are leading to a new way of looking at the condition: not just as an impediment, but as an advantage, especially in certain artistic and scientific fields. According to the full article found at http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/05/opinion/sunday/the-upside-of-dyslexia.html?_r=1&ref=dyslexia. I'm sure each of you already heard enough about dyslexia being a complex disorder, and there is much that is still not understood about it. But did have you heard a series of ingenious experiments have shown that many people with dyslexia possess distinctive perceptual abilities? For example, scientists have produced a growing collection of evidence that people with dyslexia have sharper peripheral vision than others. Two scientists names Mr. Geiger and Mr. Lettvin at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology found that in an experiment when a mechanical shutter, called a tachistoscope, was used to flash a row of letters, typical readers identified the letters in the middle of the row with greater accuracy. Those with dyslexia triumphed, however, when asked to identify letters located in the row’s outer reaches. This isn't the only study that shows individuals with dyslexia having an advantage in absorbing the "visual gist" as scientists call it. I highly encourage each of you to see the full article, it truly is amazing! We will go over this in class so please make sure you are familiar with it. If you woud like to read more on this topic, or are sceptic here is a scholarly article with supporting evidence: http://cbcl.mit.edu/people/geiger/vision_res_2004.pdf.
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
A True Success Story!
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Mind Mapping!
Mind maps are diagrams used to represent words, ideas, tasks or other items centered around a central key word or idea. They are great for brainstorming, staying on topic and starting and developing ideas for papers and projects. For a more in depth definition of mind map, you can find more information at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mind_map. Mind mapping is also a great way to look at how you think on paper. I think many of you will find this visual tool helpful in structuring information, analyzing ideas, comprehend and synthesize new ideas and much more! I found a website that gives you simple step by step instructions on how to create a mind map. I would like each of you to look over the steps and come up with an idea of something you would like to use for a mind map tomorrow in class. You can find the complete and simple steps at http://www.mapyourmind.com/howto.htm. I really hope all of you give it a try, as I think many of you will find this helpful and even enjoy it! Below I've included an example to help all of you get started.
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Lots of Learning Disabilities
Although this blog does focus on one learning disability in specific, dyslexia, there are many other types of learning disabilities that are unknown to some degree to the general public. Dyslexia tends to be a more well known learning disability but I think you all might find some of the other types of learning disabilities interesting.
Dyscalculia is a type of learning disability in performing mathematical equations, organizing and memorizing numbers, operations/operation signs, and math facts. Children with dyscalculia often have difficulty telling time, and counting. Depending on the child's strengths and weaknesses, the types of symptoms displayed will vary.
Dysgraphia is a type of learning disability in writing. This can manifest in the physical act of writing letters, or comprehending written language and synthesizing information. Some symptoms of dysgraphia include difficulty with neatness and consistency in writing and spelling, difficulty accurately copying words and letters, as well as difficulty organizing writing and coherence.
Dyspraxia is a learning disability regarding motor skills. This means a child has difficulty with movement, coordination, and/or fine motor skills. The motor skill deficiency is caused by the brain communicating incorrectly/inefficiently with certain limbs to create specific actions.
Dysphasia (or aphasia) is a learning disability in language. This means a child has trouble with producing spoken language and/or understanding it. Some signs of a language disorder include problems with verbal language skills (like telling a story or speech fluency), and difficulty understanding directions, meaning of words or parts of speech.
Learning disabilities are considered a high incidence disability according to the federal government, which means there are many people with all different types of learning disabilities. Although dyslexia a common learning disability, there are many other types (even more than the few I've shared with you) so if you're ever feeling discouraged, remember there are lots of people with all types of learning disabilities out there, some you may never even heard of. For more information visit http://www.helpguide.org/mental/learning_disabilities.htm and http://www.ldanatl.org/aboutld/teachers/understanding/types.asp
Dyscalculia is a type of learning disability in performing mathematical equations, organizing and memorizing numbers, operations/operation signs, and math facts. Children with dyscalculia often have difficulty telling time, and counting. Depending on the child's strengths and weaknesses, the types of symptoms displayed will vary.
Dysgraphia is a type of learning disability in writing. This can manifest in the physical act of writing letters, or comprehending written language and synthesizing information. Some symptoms of dysgraphia include difficulty with neatness and consistency in writing and spelling, difficulty accurately copying words and letters, as well as difficulty organizing writing and coherence.
Dyspraxia is a learning disability regarding motor skills. This means a child has difficulty with movement, coordination, and/or fine motor skills. The motor skill deficiency is caused by the brain communicating incorrectly/inefficiently with certain limbs to create specific actions.
Dysphasia (or aphasia) is a learning disability in language. This means a child has trouble with producing spoken language and/or understanding it. Some signs of a language disorder include problems with verbal language skills (like telling a story or speech fluency), and difficulty understanding directions, meaning of words or parts of speech.
Learning disabilities are considered a high incidence disability according to the federal government, which means there are many people with all different types of learning disabilities. Although dyslexia a common learning disability, there are many other types (even more than the few I've shared with you) so if you're ever feeling discouraged, remember there are lots of people with all types of learning disabilities out there, some you may never even heard of. For more information visit http://www.helpguide.org/mental/learning_disabilities.htm and http://www.ldanatl.org/aboutld/teachers/understanding/types.asp
Monday, March 12, 2012
More Tips to Keep in Mind
Hey everyone, as I was looking over the Family Education webpage, I found an awesome article regarding aspects of high school students with dyslexia. I think this article will send a positive message and offer you guys some great tips and possibly a new outlook. Here are some key points I've outlined for you all, I think these are some valuable things to keep in mind.
Having good communication with any teacher can be a challenge all high school students face. Sometimes talking to your teacher about your learning problem can relieve some big issues and be much easier than you may think. Speaking up can really pay off in terms of getting the help you need, you must remember teachers are by no means mind readers! :) Your teachers will do their best to accomodate you in order to help you to learn the best way possible.
Don't get stressed out with information overload. Think outside the box of ways you can get the information without getting stressed such as ask your teacher for a written copy of notes, access to lectures online, or if you could bring a recorder to class. Some teachers may not be thinking about how stressful lectures can be in class especially if you have a little bit if trouble note taking. Having a hard copy and/or alternative access can take the pressure off the clock and getting each and every detail correct in class.
Focus on your strong qualities, don't let dyslexia get you down!! There are tons of sports, clubs, and other extracurricular activities offered, so go ahead and try something new, you never know what you'll be great at until you try! And if you're still worried about being dyslexic, remember it's estimated that 10% of the population has dyslexia so remember you're not alone. You can find the article and more information here http://school.familyeducation.com/learning-disabilities/reading/37594.html http://ldawa.org/LDAdrupal/node/60
Having good communication with any teacher can be a challenge all high school students face. Sometimes talking to your teacher about your learning problem can relieve some big issues and be much easier than you may think. Speaking up can really pay off in terms of getting the help you need, you must remember teachers are by no means mind readers! :) Your teachers will do their best to accomodate you in order to help you to learn the best way possible.
Don't get stressed out with information overload. Think outside the box of ways you can get the information without getting stressed such as ask your teacher for a written copy of notes, access to lectures online, or if you could bring a recorder to class. Some teachers may not be thinking about how stressful lectures can be in class especially if you have a little bit if trouble note taking. Having a hard copy and/or alternative access can take the pressure off the clock and getting each and every detail correct in class.
Focus on your strong qualities, don't let dyslexia get you down!! There are tons of sports, clubs, and other extracurricular activities offered, so go ahead and try something new, you never know what you'll be great at until you try! And if you're still worried about being dyslexic, remember it's estimated that 10% of the population has dyslexia so remember you're not alone. You can find the article and more information here http://school.familyeducation.com/learning-disabilities/reading/37594.html http://ldawa.org/LDAdrupal/node/60
Monday, February 27, 2012
Helpful Essay Strategies
If you haven't began already, many of you are going to be assigned more and more essays. Here are some strategies I think will really help you out. The first thing you will want to do is organize your ideas. Once you have your ideas organized in your head, you can choose to either organize them on paper in outline form, or diagram form, whatever works best for you. We will go over each of these organization strategies in class. You can find step by step instructions for creating your outline or diagram at http://lklivingston.tripod.com/essay/outline.html. The next step is writing your thesis statement, which essentially tells the reader what your essay is about. There are two parts of the thesis, first you will state your topic, and then you will state your point. For more help with formulating a thesis statement, check out http://lklivingston.tripod.com/essay/thesis.html. Next, you will want to write the body, first write out the main points, then the subpoints, and then elaborate on the subpoints. Here will show you exactly what you should be including in the body of your essay http://lklivingston.tripod.com/essay/body.html. After that, you will start to form the introduction and the conclusion. Beginning with an attention grabber and then summarizing your essay is a good place to start. The conclusion does need to have some strong summarizing sentences, and usually doesn't follow a structure. We will go over both of these in class. And the last step is add the finishing touches. Don't forget to read your paper aloud to catch mistakes spell-check can't! It's easy as that, don't let an essay intimidate you before you start.
The Real Deal About Dyslexia
I'm sure each of you have a good understanding background knowledge of dyslexia, but there are many misconceptions others have about the learning disability. Here are some interesting facts I thought you all might like to read about from http://www.readingresource.net/causesofdyslexia.html. Dyslexia can be caused by genetics, meaning one can inherit it from family members. Did you know 23-65% of children diagnosed with dyslexia, have a parent who also is dyslexic. Many people think dyslexia is the flipping of letters backwards, but reversals are said to be irrelevant to diagnosis. Also, did you know there are two main causes of dyslexia? The first is neurological meaning a child is born with some sort of glitch in posterior reading system. This means there is some sort of problem in the brain preventing the child to easily learn how to read. The second cause is environmental which means that the child develops into a poor reader as a result of his or her experiences. This means that the neurological system is fine, but was not activated appropriately causing it to function improperly. The two causes are neurological or environmental, easy as that. So now that you know some more about the basic facts I hope, you found this helpful in being able to explain dyslexia to others. Here's another good site to visit for more information http://www.medicinenet.com/dyslexia/article.htm.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
College: Finding the Right Fit
Just like I mentioned in my earlier post about scholarship searching right around the corner, so is comparing colleges and universities you may be interested in attending. Did you know that almost all colleges and universities provide some level of accommodations and services for students with learning disabilities as mandated by the Americans with Disabilities Act? Did you know there are also numerous colleges and universities that go a step further? I encourage each of you to look into these schools. Here is a list of schools throughout the country which provide such programs for their students http://www.college-scholarships.com/learning_disabilities.htm. Did you know that there are also many schools which do not require the normal testing procedures such as ACT and SAT? Here is a link to a list of schools which accept alternate forms of testing for admissions http://www.dyslexia-test.com/university.html I know it may seem early to start thinking about higher education, but the time will go by faster than you think.
Scholarship Searching is Right Around the Corner
Many of you will be looking into colleges and universities soon, which is why i think it's important for you to start thinking about scholarships. There are many colleges and universities that accomodate students with dyslexia, and even some specialize in dyslexic students. Whichever school you decide on, chances are it will be expensive and that's where scholarships help a great deal. You can find scholarships online, through your guidance office, the college or university of your choice, and many other external organizations. Once you have found some scholarships you are eligible to apply for, here are some things you can do to make the process easier. First, be sure to read the information carefully, there are some requirements for most, and you may also want to investigate things like if the scholarship is national, state, or county wide. Also, be sure you are applying within the deadline otherwise you are just wasting your time. Staying organized will be a great deal of help throughout the process. Be sure to make copies of what your are submitting and get them in the mail on time. You also must be honest. Don't exaggerate your grades or activities, there are plenty of scholarships so just focus on the ones which apply to you. And finally, follow all instructions. Some scholarships may ask you to write an essay or submit letters of recommendation. Be sure all the requirements are completed and check for spelling and grammar errors. One typo or missing page could cost you your chances at the scholarship. If you need more help ask a teacher, we are here to help you. Check out http://www.collegeanswer.com/paying-for-college/free-money-for-college/college-scholarships/scholarship-application-tips.aspx and http://www.scholarshipworkshop.com/the-scholarship-toolbox/scholarship-tips.html for more information.
Become a Better Test Taker
Studying for tests is only part of getting the grade you want on a test. Here are some tips to follow in order to ensure you are taking your test to the best of your ability.
Preparation Tips:
1.Start preparing for the test as soon as you find out when it is, meaning taking good notes and paying attention in class. Also, if you don't understand something, asking sooner is way better than asking later! 2. Budget your time accordingly. Be sure to predict and plan out when you will study and how you are going to study while giving yourself enough time.
3. Attend any review sessions, and make sure you know what you are going to be tested on.
4. Be sure you are attend your classes especially ones closer to the exam since your teacher will probably hint at test questions and give you more information about the test.
5. Make sure you eat before your test and get enough sleep the night before so you don't feel groggy. 8 hours is the recommended amount.
6. Try to get to class early and use the restroom before.
During the Test Tips:
1. Make sure to have 2 pencils and erasers on hand.
2. Wear a watch to help you keep track of time.
3. Keep a positive attitude and try to focus.
4. When thinking, be sure not to let your eyes wonder since this may look like you could be cheating.
5. Look over the test as soon as you get it so you can budget your time accordingly.
6. Skip and go back to the problems you do not know. Come back to them at the end. Doing the problems you already know how to do will save you time and work to your advantage.
7. Always read the whole question. Don't assume anything.
8. Be sure to ask your teacher if you do not understand anything.
9. Pace yourself, and try not to rush. Don't be discouraged if others finish before you.
10. Double check your answers if you have time and don't forget to check if your name is on your test before you hand it in.
For more test taking tips visit http://www.testtakingtips.com/test/index.htm and for some great post test tips, visit: http://www.testtakingtips.com/test/genpost.htm
Preparation Tips:
1.Start preparing for the test as soon as you find out when it is, meaning taking good notes and paying attention in class. Also, if you don't understand something, asking sooner is way better than asking later! 2. Budget your time accordingly. Be sure to predict and plan out when you will study and how you are going to study while giving yourself enough time.
3. Attend any review sessions, and make sure you know what you are going to be tested on.
4. Be sure you are attend your classes especially ones closer to the exam since your teacher will probably hint at test questions and give you more information about the test.
5. Make sure you eat before your test and get enough sleep the night before so you don't feel groggy. 8 hours is the recommended amount.
6. Try to get to class early and use the restroom before.
During the Test Tips:
1. Make sure to have 2 pencils and erasers on hand.
2. Wear a watch to help you keep track of time.
3. Keep a positive attitude and try to focus.
4. When thinking, be sure not to let your eyes wonder since this may look like you could be cheating.
5. Look over the test as soon as you get it so you can budget your time accordingly.
6. Skip and go back to the problems you do not know. Come back to them at the end. Doing the problems you already know how to do will save you time and work to your advantage.
7. Always read the whole question. Don't assume anything.
8. Be sure to ask your teacher if you do not understand anything.
9. Pace yourself, and try not to rush. Don't be discouraged if others finish before you.
10. Double check your answers if you have time and don't forget to check if your name is on your test before you hand it in.
For more test taking tips visit http://www.testtakingtips.com/test/index.htm and for some great post test tips, visit: http://www.testtakingtips.com/test/genpost.htm
Monday, February 13, 2012
More Helpful Tips
Hi everyone, I found some more tips and strategies I believe will help you from other kids with dyslexia. Here are some of the things they do to get the most out of school. After you have written a paper, read it aloud and record it. Reading it aloud and hearing it over again can help you to pin point any errors or changes you want to make. It can also help you to get a better understanding of what you have written or read as well as remember what you have learned. When assignments are due on books, try reading along with a CD or tape of the book. This really will help improve your understanding and boost your confidence! You also can sign up for recorded books and other literature online. There is an organization called Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic which has large amounts of audio recordings of books, references, textbooks, magazines, newspapers and more. You can find out more about this by checking out their website at http://www.rfbd.org/. Some students suggest doing written work at home and taking notes in class on a computer or word processing keyboard such as alphasmart. Many also suggest using a computer software which can read to you. I hope you find these tips helpful, for more information and where I got these tips, visit http://dyslexia.yale.edu/DYS_Student2Student.html.
The Davis Theory
I was just introduced to a breakthrough strategy called the Davis Dyslexia Correction. This is a creative and meaning based theory used for acquisition of basic reading skills. Children and adults use clay to model concepts associated with word meaning while modeling the letters of each word in clay. According to the website, at the primary level, these methods provide a route to learning to read that seems easier for students with dyslexic tendencies instead of traditional instruction. These methods are also used with older children and adults who have dyslexia and often leads to rapid progress in their reading abilities. I was very intrigued after reading this and hope we can use this strategy for anyone wishing to improve on their reading abilities. Let me know what your thoughts are. Here is the link I found this at http://www.dyslexia.com/science/different_pathways.htm and http://www.davisdyslexia.com/faqs.html for more information.
Becoming a Better Reader
Hi again, here are some tips I think everyone could use and try to keep in mind when reading. Annotate- it will help you to become more of an active reader instead of just passively reading. Take notes on important things in the text such as ideas, facts, elements, etc. Don't be afraid to do some research. If you don't understand something in a text, seeing what credible sources have to say about the book can really help you get a good background on the story, and help you to better understand. This also shows initiative, which really impresses us teachers! Use a dictionary when you need to. Make sure you look up words you don't know or don't understand in order to get the most out of what the author is saying. You will increase both your comprehension and build your vocabulary! Make a list of questions. Keeping a list of questions and things you don't understand. Sometimes you will understand more as you keep reading, and then you can cross them off. But if you don't, you can always ask a teacher or even try using credible sources as mentioned above. Improving your reading comprehension is key to gain important knowledge as well as make the most out of your education. So if you ever feel like your reading skills need a boost, keep these things in mind to help you out. Here are more sights for you to check out to help with reading: http://www.collegeboard.com/student/plan/boost-your-skills/189995.html and http://www.overbooked.org/ can help you find the perfect book to interest you.
Time Matters
I have a simple, yet amazing assignment strategy for you all to try. This strategy focuses on time management and has been recommended by Abbie, a fourteen year old student with dyslexia. She recommends using a large wall or desk calendar in order to keep track of time and assignments. Abbie marks not only the date things are due, but the dates she should have certain steps of her assignments finished. Here are some tips I found to managing time the most efficiently when working on assignments.
1. Breaking up projects and even homework into smaller pieces automatically allows them to become less intimidating. You can also get help from a parent or a teacher for setting dates for working on little tasks related to the big assignments, like picking a topic, doing research, and writing a first draft for example.
2.This is an easy one- do whats due first! Making a list of your assignment helps, but it is very important to prioritize so you don't feel overwhelmed. Take a minute to prioritize your work, not only by what’s due, but also by what you think you might need more or less time to finish.
3. This one may be easier said than done. Don’t fall into the “no homework tonight” trap. Look ahead to see what’s coming up and use some free time to make a start on the work you will eventually have to start on anyway. It's a great way to make up and coming assignments easier, if you've already taken some time to get a head start on them.
4. Outlining a task before you even start can help you get a grip on how you will handle the assignment. Thinking it through in your head and figuring out what steps you’ll have to take lets you assess what you have to do and how much time it will take you to get it done. Before you know it, you'll be on your way!
Here is the webpage I found the time management strategy on along with another to help you manage your time! Check them out http://dyslexia.yale.edu/DYS_Student2Student.html http://frank.mtsu.edu/~studskl/tmths.html
1. Breaking up projects and even homework into smaller pieces automatically allows them to become less intimidating. You can also get help from a parent or a teacher for setting dates for working on little tasks related to the big assignments, like picking a topic, doing research, and writing a first draft for example.
2.This is an easy one- do whats due first! Making a list of your assignment helps, but it is very important to prioritize so you don't feel overwhelmed. Take a minute to prioritize your work, not only by what’s due, but also by what you think you might need more or less time to finish.
3. This one may be easier said than done. Don’t fall into the “no homework tonight” trap. Look ahead to see what’s coming up and use some free time to make a start on the work you will eventually have to start on anyway. It's a great way to make up and coming assignments easier, if you've already taken some time to get a head start on them.
4. Outlining a task before you even start can help you get a grip on how you will handle the assignment. Thinking it through in your head and figuring out what steps you’ll have to take lets you assess what you have to do and how much time it will take you to get it done. Before you know it, you'll be on your way!
Here is the webpage I found the time management strategy on along with another to help you manage your time! Check them out http://dyslexia.yale.edu/DYS_Student2Student.html http://frank.mtsu.edu/~studskl/tmths.html
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Don't Get Discouraged!
As you probably know, dyslexia is a very common syndrome with many different symptoms. Approximately 40 million American adults and children are effected by it. Everyone gets discouraged sometimes, but when it comes to dyslexia, you're not alone! I encourage each of you to take the time to read about some very successful and famous individuals with dyslexia who have made tremendous contributions to society. Some of these stories I believe you will find truly inspiring. Thomas Edison, Leonardo DaVinci, Picasso, Tom Cruise, Jay Leno, Walt Disney, and Whoopie Goldberg just to name a few of some of the most famous. It's important to keep in mind these people have faced the same problems you are facing right now. So when it gets hard, remember the extremely successful people who overcame their learning disability. Jay Leno says he credits his dyslexia for his successful career in comedy as well as the drive and perseverance essential to succeed in his career field and life. Here are some really good links to find more information http://www.dyslexiaonline.com/famous/famous.htm and http://www.dyslexia.com/famous.htm are great places to start!
Hi Students
Hello Everyone! This blog is for my students with dyslexia and will offer help and resources relating to class throughout the year. I hope you all take the time to use this as resource as needed, so stay tuned for more!
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