Students with Reading Difficulties

Diagnostic Testing

The National Agency for Education provides schools with diagnostic materials and assessment support. For Grade 1 there is mandatory assessment support material for the subjects of Swedish, Swedish as a second language, and mathematics.15 These materials are intended to highlight individual students’ development and to help teachers monitor how far students have progressed in relation to the knowledge requirements, be objective in their judgments, and plan their teaching. Several additional reading achievement tests, spelling tests, screening tests, and diagnostic materials are available on the market.

Instruction for Children with Reading Difficulties

If a member of the school staff notices a student who is at risk of not achieving the knowledge requirements, the school must investigate. Any requirements for additional adjustments to the teaching—such as giving the student clear instructions or explaining terms before a new topic is introduced—must be made immediately. Adjustments also may include additional training in reading or access to digital aids.

If the additional adjustments are not sufficient, the school must investigate whether the student is in need of special support that allows students to interact with their age group and reach the goals for their grade level. If so, the school should frame an action program in consultation with the parents and the student that describes the student’s needs and how they are to be met and evaluated. Examples of special support include a special needs teacher working with the student, special teaching groups, a students’ assistant following the student throughout most of the school day, or an adjusted course of studies where the student is given extra time in certain subjects. During national testing, the student may receive additional time to take the test or be allowed to take the test in a smaller group. Many municipalities have set up special education teams that offer teachers and parents advice, in-service training for teachers, and short term assistance at local schools. Students with dyslexia or other reading disabilities may receive aid materials, computer programs, individual instruction, or help from a speech therapist, but additional adjustments or special support should be provided for all students in need.16