What is it?
Optical magnification and reading supports make printed text, images, and objects easier to see or visually track. Tools may include handheld or stand magnifiers, magnifying reading rulers, dome magnifiers, monoculars, electronic video magnifiers, and other low-vision devices. Some supports magnify information, while others help isolate a line of text, increase contrast, or reduce competing visual information.
How to use it?
Match the tool to the viewing task and distance. A learner might use a handheld magnifier for a worksheet, a reading ruler to support visual tracking, a video magnifier for detailed print or images, or a monocular to view information displayed across the classroom. Teach learners how to position and adjust tools independently and ensure they remain readily available during classroom activities. A teacher of students with visual impairments can help determine appropriate tools and teach efficient use.
Why use it?
Printed and environmental information can become inaccessible when details are too small, visually crowded, or located too far away. Magnification and reading supports allow learners to access information without requiring every classroom material to be permanently enlarged. Having different options available can support independence as visual demands change across reading, writing, STEM activities, classroom displays, and other learning experiences.
