Module: Understanding Dyslexia & Dyspraxia

 

Learning Goals

By the end of this module, learners will:

• Understand what dyslexia and dyspraxia are.

• Recognize the challenges faced by students with these conditions.

• Know basic support strategies for the classroom.

• Practice thinking about communication and inclusive teaching.

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Section 1: Introduction – Annie’s Classroom

Scenario:
Students are arriving in the classroom. Annie greets everyone and introduces the lesson.

Teacher Notes:

• Keep language simple and clear.

• Use visual aids for support.

• Encourage students to ask questions.

Text for Students:

• Hello! My name is Annie.

• I am your teacher for today.

• We will learn about different ways our brains work.

• Some students have dyslexia or dyspraxia.

• Everyone learns differently, and that’s okay.

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Section 2: Understanding Dyslexia

Definition:

• Dyslexia affects reading, writing, and spelling.

Challenges Students May Face:

• Mixing up letters or words

• Reading slowly

• Trouble with spelling

Strengths Students May Have:

• Creativity

• Good problem-solving ideas

Teacher Notes:

• Encourage students to share how they learn best.

• Use multisensory teaching: writing, drawing, and speaking.

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Section 3: Understanding Dyspraxia

Definition:

• Dyspraxia affects movement, coordination, and planning.

Challenges Students May Face:

• Hard to catch a ball or write neatly

• Planning and organizing tasks is slower

Strengths Students May Have:

• Creative thinking

• Unique problem-solving skills

Teacher Notes:

• Break tasks into small steps.

• Offer coordination games and practical exercises.

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Section 4: Support Strategies

For Teachers/Support Staff:

• Break tasks into small steps

• Use visual aids

• Give extra time for reading or writing

For Students:

• Use pencil grips or adapted tools

• Practice slowly

• Ask for help when needed

Communication Support:

• Speak clearly

• Sign language, Makaton, Braille

• Staff may support alternative communication methods

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Section 5: Classroom Scenario

Scenario Activity:
Annie asks a student, Jamie, to read a sentence aloud. Jamie struggles with spelling some words.

Questions for Discussion:

1. What could Annie do to help Jamie feel supported?

2. What strategies could help Jamie with reading and writing?

3. How could classmates help in a friendly way?

Suggested Actions:

• Encourage and praise effort

• Offer visual aids or word cards

• Allow extra time

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Section 6: Quick Quiz

1. Dyslexia affects:
   a) Reading and writing ✅
   b) Running fast
   c) Hearing

2. Dyspraxia affects:
   a) Movement and coordination ✅
   b) Spelling words
   c) Listening

3. True or False: Everyone learns the same way. ❌

4. Name one way teachers can help students with dyslexia or dyspraxia:

• Break tasks into small steps ✅

• Make them do everything faster

• Ignore mistakes

5. What is one way students can communicate if they find speaking hard?

• Sign language ✅

• Yelling

• Copying homework