Reading PK-3

Rich Library: Audio & Braille

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Overview

Books for vision differences support reading development for learners with visual needs. Creating a classroom library with audio and Braille books promotes reading success for learners with visual differences.

Use It in the Classroom

Learn how teachers can use Braille texts to build literacy skills like Decoding and Syntax.

  • Students with varying visual needs can read independently with the support of audio and Braille books. By providing a variety of these books for students to choose from, teachers can help support Motivation for reading, which in turn supports growth in Background Knowledge, Narrative Skills, and Verbal Reasoning.

    • Design It into Your Product

    Videos are chosen as examples of strategies in action. These choices are not endorsements of the products or evidence of use of research to develop the feature.

    See how products like NaturalReader use text-to-speech software to support learners with visual difficulties. With the ability to change the speaker voice and speed, learners can adjust the settings to their needs.

  • Creating a virtual library that includes reading material in multiple formats, such as audio, large print, or Braille, increases the availability of accessible electronic learning materials. Learners can select to read or listen to the texts in their preferred format, which strengthens their love for reading. They can also use portable magnifiers, screen reading software, screen/video magnifiers, and Braille computer technologies to support their reading.
    • View References

    Resources

    Below are additional examples, research, and professional development. These resources are possible representations of this strategy, not endorsements.

    Assistive Technologies & Disabilities

    Subtopic that includes research on the use and effectiveness of technologies for people with disabilities on Digital Promise's Research Map

    Braille and Audio Reading Download (BARD)

    Digital book program by the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped

    Free Audiobooks

    Teacher's First curated selection of elementary audiobooks with text

    Learning with Audiobooks

    Where to find audiobooks and tips for using them in the classroom

    Reading Apps for Visually Impaired

    Five apps that support visual difficulties

    Factors Supported by this Strategy

    Language and Literacy
    Alphabet Knowledge
    Background Knowledge
    Decoding
    Narrative Skills
    Print Awareness
    Sight Recognition
    Syntax
    Verbal Reasoning
    Vocabulary
    Cognition
    Long-term Memory
    Short-term Memory
    Visual Processing
    Working Memory
    Social and Emotional Learning
    Student Background
    Home Literacy Environment
    Primary Language
    Socioeconomic Status
    Vision

    More Physical Space Strategies

    Dim or Natural Lighting

    Dim or natural lighting provides a calming environment.

    Individual Spaces

    Having space where students can go supports Self-regulation and [individual deliberate practice][1].

    Mobility & Flexibility

    Multiple tables and chairs on wheels allow for setting up the classroom to support the desired learning outcomes of each classroom activity.

    Multiple Display Boards/Screens

    Multiple display spaces promote collaboration by allowing groups to share information easily as they work.

    Multiple Writing Surfaces

    Multiple writing surfaces promote collaboration by allowing groups to share information easily as they work.

    Quiet Classroom/Pockets of Quiet

    Decreasing extra audio input provides a focused learning environment.

    Rich Library: Complexity

    Books of varying complexity and reading levels are necessary for all students to experience reading success.

    Rich Library: Diversity

    Multicultural and diverse books are critical for supporting all students.

    Rich Library: Poetry

    With rhyming and creative word use, poetry is a genre that supports the development of early literacy skills in particular.

    Rich Library: Primary Language

    Students who have had little exposure to the school's language can benefit from having books in their Primary Language in their classroom.

    Rich Library: SEL Topics

    Books with SEL topics, such as developing friendships and identifying emotions, help teach these skills.

    Sound Level

    Providing ways for students to adjust sound level supports individual auditory needs.

    Temperature

    Providing ways for students to meet their individual temperature needs supports focus and Self-Regulation.

    Uncluttered Environment

    Spaces that are structured, organized, and clean provide increased room for collaboration and active learning.

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