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Hearing and Vision Loss. Classroom Implications. Hearing Loss. Hearing Loss. Communication Speak clearly at a normal volume and pace Never turn your back while talking Speak to the student, not the interpreter Create visual cues To seek clarification when misunderstanding
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Hearing and Vision Loss Classroom Implications
Hearing Loss Communication • Speak clearly at a normal volume and pace • Never turn your back while talking • Speak to the student, not the interpreter • Create visual cues • To seek clarification when misunderstanding • To indicate that you are calling on him/her • Learn general sign language if parents support it
Hearing Loss Classroom Set-Up • Be aware of noise • Carpet is quieter than tile • Seat away from noise producing machines (heaters, projectors, etc.) • If small groups are working together, place the student in a group along the outer edges of the classroom where it is quieter
Hearing Loss Structuring the Day • Clearly explain rules before playing games • Explain the systems of lunch and recess • Have a plan in place for emergency situations (fire, tornado,etc.) • A buddy system may be beneficial
Hearing Loss Curriculum • Provide written directions/information or picture cues • Model or demonstrate what is expected • When changing the subject, give the student information about the topic (“Next I’m going to talk about animals.”) This gives lip-readers a clue about the content.
Vision Loss Communication • When approaching a student with a severe vision loss, always say your name to alert the student that you are there • Be aware of how you give praise • Teachers often use smiles and body language to express approval • Be sure to include verbal praise
Vision Loss Classroom Set-Up • Seat the student up front, near the board • Be aware of glare issues • Watch for light reflecting off the board • Avoid standing in front of windows when talking • Keep aisles clear and unobstructed • push in chairs • keep books and supplies in desk • Remove unnecessary items from the floor space
Vision Loss Structuring the Day • Be aware of special mobility concerns that PE, the auditorium, lunch, and recess may create • Have a plan in place for emergency situations (fire, tornado, etc.) • A buddy system may be beneficial
Vision Loss Curriculum • Provide a lot of verbal cues • When giving notes: • Write in large print • Say out loud what you are writing • When expecting the student to write: • Use special papers with wide or raised lines • Allow keyboarding if student is fluent
Vision Loss Curriculum • Magnify items when necessary • Use computers with extra large monitors • Handheld magnifiers • Little telescopes • Provide sharp contrast • Black and white is more effective than color • Use talking calculators
Vision Loss Curriculum • Test taking • Allow time-and-a-half for test completion • Read tests orally • Allow verbal answers • Transcribe tests into Braille
Expectations • Be sure to keep high expectations for students with a hearing or vision loss. • With additional time and the proper modifications and accommodations, students with hearing and vision losses can be productive members of your class!