This article describes the whole-language philosophy of teaching reading and writing and its application to teaching braille reading to blind children. It suggests activities that are effective for enhancing the development of early reading behaviors in children who use braille and that integrate the critical components of literacy learning with…

Three short articles about mathematics and science braille are provided for braille transcribers and teachers of the visually handicapped. The first article discusses the differences between the rules for English textbook format and the Nemeth Braille Code (for mathematics, science, and notation) format in transcribing the mathematical section of…

Information sheets on resources, assistance, software, and hardware for visually handicapped (VH) students in England are collected in this document. The first information sheet, "Getting Help--What, Where, and Who," lists general sources of assistance, equipment, and books. The second information sheet, "Computer Hardware Used in…

Examines the areas of visual and physical efficiency that are important to reading and writing braille or large print and conditions and modifications that may be used to make the selected media effective for individuals who have both visual and physical impairments. (Author/DB)

Two short articles about tactile illustrating are presented for braille transcribers and teachers of the visually handicapped. Focusing on tactile graphics, the first article discusses the conversion of significant print graphic information to the clearest, most factually legible form possible. Tips for achieving factual legibility and the…

A diagnostic teaching approach for determining the appropriate reading medium (print or braille) of children with visual impairments is presented. Two checklists are offered for recording observations useful in making decisions during two phases (selection of the medium for beginning instruction and ongoing evaluation of the initial decision). Two…

This article discusses ways to teach low vision students to read braille, including both parallel instruction (the student learns to read print and braille simultaneously) and nonparallel instruction (the print-reading student learns braille). The following approaches are briefly described: basal reader, language experience, whole language,…

International sharing, by libraries, of special-format materials for blind and physically handicapped readers is discussed. Topics include the variety of formats for such materials, identification of potential users, library activities for improving loan procedures, production practices and facilities, determination of available publications,…

A study was conducted to determine if the centralization of braille operations for the national free library program would be feasible, economical, and desirable. This report presents the findings of the study in three sections. Section 1 provides background information, a summary of the first phase of operations, and the study objective for phase…

This K-12 reading curriculum for exceptional child education is arranged in a format comparable to the general education curriculum, and is sequenced in the order in which most children learn. The curriculum begins with a list of 123 objectives of the reading program. The objectives cover the areas of perceptual skills, word attack, structural…

Beginning braille readers may benefit from an integrated-literacy curriculum which reflects the interrelationships of oral language, reading, and writing, and stresses the pleasurable and purposeful aspects of literacy. Integrating braille materials into daily curriculum activities can assist students to make the read/write connection and to begin…

The reading process and the history of teaching reading to Braille, print, and aural readers are reviewed. Variables in effective reading instruction programs for visually impaired children include teaching methods, assessment methods, qualities and competencies of teachers, other deficits of visually impaired students that exacerbate reading…

Music is a universal language, and through the items in this bibliography, readers can find books about music, history, composers, performers, dancing and adventures relating to music, including foreign music and cultures. It contains annotations for 92 books that are available for free to the blind and disabled. Entries are arranged…

This guide contains a sample press release, artwork, bibliographies, and program ideas for use in 1992 public library summer reading programs in Montana. Art work incorporating the dragon theme includes bookmarks, certificates, reading logs, and games. The bibliography lists books in the following categories: picture books and easy fiction (49…

The guide, intended to help teachers, parents, and community workers throughout the world develop educational services to visually handicapped students in ordinary schools, has been published in English, French, Spanish, Arabic, and Chinese. The first three chapters provide general information concerning types of educational programs for the…