How can you differentiate instruction for students with dyslexia in a classroom setting?

2 Provide multisensory instruction

One of the most effective ways to differentiate instruction for students with dyslexia is to provide multisensory instruction. This means using a combination of visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and tactile methods to teach and reinforce concepts. For example, teachers can use pictures, videos, charts, maps, or graphic organizers to illustrate ideas; use songs, rhymes, stories, or podcasts to convey information; use manipulatives, games, experiments, or movements to engage students; and use flashcards, writing tools, or tactile materials to practice skills. Multisensory instruction can help students with dyslexia access different modalities of learning, activate different parts of the brain, and enhance memory and retention.

4 Implement accommodations and interventions

A further way to differentiate instruction for students with dyslexia is to implement accommodations and interventions that can help them overcome their difficulties and leverage their strengths. Accommodations are changes that do not alter the expectations or outcomes of the learning, but rather provide equal access and opportunity for students with dyslexia. Interventions are targeted and evidence-based strategies that aim to improve the specific skills or areas of weakness of students with dyslexia. Some examples of accommodations are extra time, preferential seating, assistive technology, or audio books. Some examples of interventions are phonics instruction, fluency practice, vocabulary development, or comprehension strategies.

5 Foster a positive and inclusive culture

The last way to differentiate instruction for students with dyslexia is to foster a positive and inclusive culture in the classroom. Teachers can do this by creating a safe and supportive environment where students with dyslexia feel valued, respected, and understood. Teachers can also promote a growth mindset, where students with dyslexia believe that they can improve their skills and abilities with effort and persistence. Teachers can also encourage collaboration, where students with dyslexia work with their peers and learn from each other. Teachers can also celebrate diversity, where students with dyslexia appreciate their own and others' learning differences and strengths.

Differentiating instruction for students with dyslexia can be challenging, but also rewarding. By following these tips, teachers can help students with dyslexia reach their full potential and enjoy learning in a classroom setting.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?