A dyslexic student has difficulty understanding what they just read or they may get confused with the letters or the words; taking them longer to test.
Timed tests fill a dyslexic student with anxiety, causing them to hyper focus on the clock ticking away. As they begin the test they look down at the testing material; first at the letter symbols, then they have to decode the words, and translate the sentences, and then they have to formulate the words to answer the questions. They rush through and answer the short sentences hoping they have time remaining to get to the longer sentences and answer the questions before time runs out. They may have the answers to the remaining questions but they run out of time before they can get to them.
Extended time or “Time and a half” isn’t always the answer but knowing they don’t have to hyper focus on the clock, brushing off the anxiety, giving them time to process the words when reading and figuring out the questions, and having time to put their thoughts on paper; without the time pressure; gives them confidence to complete the testing.
In grade school a #504 program can state extended time or request “Time and a half”. For college or career testing a psychologist or a psychiatrist can write up an extended time report for them. Giving the confidence if they need the extra time, it’s available. They may not need it, but knowing it’s there keeps them confident to stay focused on the task at hand and not to get disoriented on the clock ticking way precious time.
If you would like to know if it’s dyslexia, or why your student is having difficulty testing, call to set up an appointment today (253) 854-9377 or email: abc4dyslexia@gmail.com