How to Learn English for Blind People

Learning a new language as complicated as English is hard enough on its own, but accomplishing the same feat when you're blind or visually impaired is a definite challenge. When learning the English language under these circumstances, take into account that the most commonly used medium for learning -- sight -- is not feasible. Other senses, such as hearing, touch and even smell must be substituted instead. Maintaining a hands-on, experience-rich learning process is essential to learning English, especially for the blind.

Things You'll Need

  • Certified bilingual instructor
  • Braille resources
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Instructions

    • 1
      Pizza is an example of something that relates to American culture.

      Listen to basic English words, then mimic them by speaking them aloud. Use the words in context-basic sentences, especially ones that relate to English culture. According to Sylvie Kashdan, the curriculum coordinator for the non-profit Kaizen Program for New English Learners with Visual Limitations, learning English should begin with learning "survival English," which is basic communication skills that relate to the American culture. Examples of survival English include "pizza," "sandwich," "television," "movies" and "Washington D.C."

    • 2
      The alphabet is essential to learning the written version of any language.

      Learn the English alphabet. This is essential in learning to spell and read the language phonetically. Use letter models, such as refrigerator magnets, that you can feel so you can learn the basic letter shapes.

    • 3

      Learn to read braille. Seek a certified instructor and learn to associate the various braille symbols with the letters of the English alphabet. Practice reading sentences, then try to read books and stories written in braille.

    • 4

      Learn to write letters and words in print if possible. Although not completely necessary, this skill will further an individual's grasp on the English language, even if blind. Being blind, the letters and words would have to be drawn by feel and in significantly larger print. Blind people encounter many instances that require them to write, such as signing paper documents.

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