Overview
Did you know that about 11% of our general education students are English Language Learners (ELL)? It’s essential to have a plan for including the family so instruction is culturally appropriate. Braille instruction can be guided by teaching words that are motivating, and making use of rhymes and songs to increase reading fluency. Conchita Hernandez offers tips for TVIs and general guidelines.
There has been a dramatic shift in the cultural diversity of students, who now make up 51% of the nation’s public school population. However, the standard curriculum, instruction, customs and teacher force of America’s schools continue to reflect the dominant, European, middle class culture. What principles and practices can you infuse in instruction to make it more culturally responsive?
Teaching braille to Spanish-speaking students is often daunting for school staff. Bilingual education teachers don’t know braille. Teachers of students with visual impairment may not have experience in bilingual education nor Spanish proficiency. Luckily, uncontracted braille is very similar to Spanish braille, so skills transfer easily. Do you want tips and strategies for these learners?
Sometimes, students have life experiences that are so unique they challenge the creativity of their educational team. Renee Ellis, teacher of students with visual impairments, shares how she approached teaching braille and other skills to a student with dual sensory impairment who recently arrived in the US from Syria.
Join a new Consortium on Blindness and English Learners to get up to date on the latest research, network with others in the field of blindness, and increase your skills for teaching these students effectively.
