A Multisensory Approach to Teach Arabic Decoding to Students with Dyslexia

Abstract

This paper proposes a technique for teaching decoding of the Arabic language to Arab dyslexic students following the multisensory, systematic, explicit phonics approach and based in part on the Orton-Gillingham approach. This technique emphasizes vocabulary controlled, font-modified, cumulative, color-coded reading materials, and orthographic rather than linguistic patterns. A comprehensive theoretical framework and a detailed development of the multisensory lessons are provided, and a sample lesson is included. This method needs to be tested empirically to measure its effectiveness. Supplementary activities are recommended to maximize its benefits.