W5_Layout organization

LAYOUT ORGANIZATION

GENERAL PRINCIPLES

• Remember that one type of adaptation don’t fit all DYS
• Once chosen a code try to be consistent with it
• Set up right environment in the classroom
• Provide an outline of lesson and the summary
• Give clear instructions and try to avoid metaphors

TYPOGRAPHY

Many learners with Dys will prefer a larger font, at 14 points (not larger)It is recommended to use a plain, evenly spaced sans serif font such as Arial and Comic Sans. Other possibilities: Verdana, Tahoma, Century Gothic and TrebuchetCheck OpenDyslexic, free to use font which was created to increase readability for readers with dyslexia.

CONTRASTING

The background color of classroom materials can have a big impact on accessibility for Dys learners, so producing handouts on pastel-background paper might be helpful. Here are few eye friendly, pastel colors to consider:

PICTURES

Here is an example of a simple task and 2 pictures that could be used to pursue it. It is important to use a good picture with clear lines.

Task: name all the provinces of Belgium on the map. Use pictures that are clear to read:

SPACING

Use books and photocopies with large spaces between the lines and the paragraphs (line spacing of 1.5 is preferable).For younger students separate text visually with a color.Example:High above the city, on a tall column, stood the statue of the Happy Prince. He was gilded all over with thin leaves of fine gold, for eyes he had two bright sapphires, and a large red ruby glowed on his sword-hilt.

ADDITIONAL TIPS

• Don't use italics and underlining as these tend to make the text appear to "run" together. To emphasize a part of the text it’s better to use bold instead.
• Put important information in the boxes or present as bullet points.
• The words in the text should not be cut. If they are, it should be syllables by syllables.
• The text should not be justified. The recommended way is to align the content with the left margin.
• If you print the material – avoid recto-verso.

THANK YOU!