Literacy and numeracy

Reading and writing are very important skills; a lot of time is spent on these areas in the primary years.

Adapting or enlarging print

Sometimes print will need to be enlarged, which may mean that a whole worksheet needs to be adapted. Sometimes a reading book may need to be enlarged.

A3 paper can be difficult for children to scan, so worksheets need to be produced in A4 but at the correct size print. Some children find the use of dark-lined paper and books helps them. Some find it easier to proofread their work if they have used a black pen rather than a pencil.

Touch typing

As children begin to produce more work, some may need to learn to touch type, so that they can produce the quantity of work to reflect their ability. It's important for children with severe sight problems to learn to touch type accurately.

Braille

Some children will use braille for literacy but be able to use their vision for numeracy.

A child who needs to use braille may well spend most of their primary school life learning it. See learning braille for materials and courses.

Numeracy

Numeracy is a very practical subject in the early primary years and usually produces less of a challenge with regard to access. Some areas, such as numeracy and science, may need extra support to ensure the child understands new concepts.

Each area of the curriculum will be affected by the child's ability in Literacy skills. Each child is an individual and methods of access need to be decided according to the child's visual ability and individual need.

Contact: cypf@rnib.org.uk

Last updated: 27 October 2011

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