Dyslexia is a complex topic that is difficult to explain to students. This book was created to help teachers explain and discuss what dyslexia is and to affirm for children with dyslexia that they are not alone. Our goal in writing this book is to help teachers broach this subject with their students and help children understand the challenge that learning to read can be. We enhanced the book with Turn and Talk activities you can use to discuss different aspects of the book and help students gain an in-depth understanding of dyslexia and an appreciation for the neurodiversity involved in learning to read. For Turn and Talks to be effective, it is suggested that you practice a few times before reading this book to your class (if you have not done them in class before) so students understand the expectations of Turn and Talks.
Tips for Turn and Talk (if this is new to you):
- Pair students with a Turn and Talk partner on the carpet or with a student sitting near them at their table and/or desk. This reduces the time it takes students to pair up and avoids the anxiety some students feel when seeking out a partner on their own.
- Practice having students turn to their partner and look them in their eyes. Remind students when you are looking at someone speaking, it makes it easier to focus and listen, as well as shows the listener you are paying attention to what they have to say.
- Have a signal that lets students know it is time to wrap up their conversations. You can ring a chime which tells students they need to finish what they are saying and have their eyes back on you. You can also say, "Finish your sharing in 3, 2, 1. Thank you!"
- When students finish sharing, have them thank their partner for sharing with them. This makes students feel valued and their ideas appreciated.
- You can move on right away after a Turn and Talk, or you can call on partnerships to
share their thinking with the class.
