7 Revision Tips For Dyslexic Learners
Revision is never fun, but it is an essential part of the educational journey for students. For children with dyslexia, revision can be a daunting process as the long texts, memory overload and pressure to perform make it particularly challenging.
However, revision does not have to be overwhelming or boring, and in this latest article, we explore seven of our top tips to help dyslexic learners with their revision.
1) Embrace technology
Many children with dyslexia find reading text exhausting, especially when they're already juggling nerves and time pressure. Tools like reading pens or text-to-speech software can give their brain a break while still helping them take in key information.
By listening as they read, learners engage multiple senses (visual and auditory), which helps boost memory and understanding.
2) Colour coding
Assign colours to different subjects, topics or types of facts, for example, red for key dates, green for definitions and blue for quotes. This helps the brain create mental "files" that are easier to retrieve later.
For dyslexic learners, visuals and patterns can be far more memorable than blocks of plain text. Just make sure to stick to the same colour scheme throughout to keep things consistent and calm.
3) Embrace the Pomodoro Technique
The Pomodoro Technique was first developed in the 1980s by Francesco Cirillo and can be a valuable tool for students with short attention spans. The method involves 25 minutes of focused work followed by a 5-minute break. Students can repeat the process a few times before then taking a longer break.
This process helps prevent burnout, keeps energy levels stable and allows room for physical movement, all of which are vital for neurodivergent learners. Even stretching, pacing or a quick snack break can help reset their focus.
4) Turn your home into a memory map
Spatial memory can be a wonderful tool for all learners, so turning your home into a giant memory map can transform your child’s revision. Stick revision notes around the house, helping to link topics to physical spaces. It might sound odd, but it really does work.
5) Have them teach you
One of the best ways to check if a child truly understands what they are learning is to have them teach it back to you. Encourage them to create their own lessons, mini quizzes or even a revision show. By doing this, you will be encouraging them to utilise both verbal and kinaesthetic learning, making use of movement, speech and creativity.
6) Quiz, don’t cram
Instead of having your child endlessly reread their notes, encourage them to embrace the retrieval practice. This is the process of having them actively recall information, so ask them to explain a topic without looking or using flashcards with images and key words.
There is also a variety of online platforms that can help you create fun, low-pressure quizzes that can make revision fun and engaging.
7) Utilise all your senses
The more senses that students engage, the more pathways the brain uses to store the information and the more likely they are to remember essential insights. You could try recording key notes and playing them back, using textured paper and highlighters, drawing symbols to represent key ideas, or linking topics to music, movement or scents.
The more senses you can engage, the more likely your child is to recall the information when they need it in their exams.
Discover revision tools at the Dyslexia Shop
When it comes to helping dyslexic learners with their revision, it’s not that they need to undertake more revision but instead find the method that works best for them. Here at The Dyslexia Shop, we offer a wide range of essentials to support your loved ones with their learning.
From coloured overlays and tinted exercise books to a wide range of electronics and software, check out our full range today or get in touch with our team, who will be happy to help!