Dyslexia Resources
The following links provide more information on dyslexia, including screening and recommended tools for studying if you have dyslexia.
Useful links
- has the following useful documents:
- ,
- ,
- , an article from Neurodivergent insights on the different types of dyslexia.
- is an article from Oxford University
- is a community of dyslexic people and their allies
Links to dyslexia tools and apps for study
- - lets you hear text read out loud, change the background colour and apply a reading ruler.
- lets you use speech-to-text in Word, PowerPoint and Outlook.
- can check your spelling, punctuation, grammar and more.
- is a text-to-speech programme where you can paste text or drag and drop files (including pdfs) to hear them read out loud. It has a good free version.
- is an online mind mapping software; there’s a free version.
- is an online shop with resources for dyslexia including coloured overlays.
- records and transcribes speech which is very useful for meeting notes. The free version allows you to record for up to 30 minutes.
- can check spelling, punctuation and grammar.
- has a huge range of customisable, immersive soundscapes online to enhance focus, relaxation and sleep.
Strategies for dyslexia
Reduce how much you have to read by using:
- Audio books are available on platforms like , (with 15 hours a month for Spotify Premium), (free) and (free with a Cornwall Library Membership).
- is an on-demand TV and radio service for education.
- YouTube videos and talks .
- .
If you have a (meaning you are unable to read printed material due to a perceptual, physical or visual disability) you can download different formats for free via . Email inclusive@fxplus.ac.uk to access this.
Using more than one sense at a time known as will help you understand and remember information more effectively. For example, you could try:
- Visual techniques like mind maps, diagrams, symbols, sketching, colour coding, visual associations etc.
- Auditory techniques like text-to-speech, dictation, repetition or summarising information to yourself, discussing it with someone else, listening to talks, audiobooks or listening back to lectures.
- Kinaesthetic learning linking the process of learning to physical activity. Try using Post-it notes or cards to structure ideas, learn to , learn by doing, rehearse, walk around your room linking ideas to locations, fidget, create flashcards etc.
- Work backwards from deadlines setting mini-deadlines to stay on track.
- Try the of working in 25-minute bursts with 5-minute breaks to maximise productivity or use
- Try the (Survey, Question, Read, Recall and Review) to improve reading comprehension.
- Prioritise reading and tasks (don't try to do everything). Use an .
- Set up your workspace so that what you need is close to hand (and things which distract you are somewhere else).
- Use planners, diaries, reminders and checklists to organise your life and studies (and remember to check them).
- Set up helpful routines and habits. (See this ' YouTube video.)
- Get the tools you need, such as coloured overlays and reading rulers. Visit the or download the .
Screening tools and checklists
- The British Dyslexia Association (BDA) has an list and an
- The International Dyslexia Association has an .
Get in touch with the Inclusive Learning team at inclusive@fxplus.ac.uk for an informal chat if you’d like to know more about screening, they can signpost you to support and guidance.