Students with Reading Difficulties
Diagnostic Testing
The classroom teacher is responsible for assessment and making the first diagnosis of disabilities or reading difficulties based on observations and specific tests. When the disabilities are considered serious, the educational psychologist intervenes. Since 2011, a test called ESCALA has been administered to all students finishing second grade in order to detect reading difficulties. ESCALA is the biggest test developed in the country, given every year to about 100,000 students ages 7 to 8. This test includes a reading passage that is administered to about 35,000 students a year.
Instruction for Children with Reading Difficulties
Reading instruction begins when students are in the preprimary stage of education, and reading abilities are strengthened at the end of the first cycle in primary education.
In Andalusia, specific guidance is provided to improve reading comprehension, and disabled students are given specialized support in specific classrooms in accordance with the arrangements of the school. When students’ progress in reading is inadequate, remedial measures are established and should be adopted as soon as the difficulties are detected. These measures are designed to guarantee students’ acquisition of essential skills in order to continue the educational process. In the event of serious disabilities, the educational psychologist intervenes.
Special Education
In accordance with the Organic Law, education authorities must provide the necessary resources for students who require special education due to specific learning disabilities, high intellectual abilities, late integration into the education system, personal problems, and/or unsatisfactory academic record so these students can achieve the maximum development of their personal abilities and the general objectives established for all students. From the time their needs are identified, students with special needs are provided with comprehensive support governed by the principles of standardization and social inclusion. Furthermore, these students are guaranteed equality of access to education and continuance in the education system as necessary in the different stages of education.