Empowering Dyslexic Learners with Microsoft Immersive Reader

How to Use Microsoft Immersive Reader to Teach People with Dyslexia

Microsoft Immersive Reader is a powerful tool that enhances text readability, making it easier for individuals with dyslexia to read and learn.  It provides customizable reading settings, text-to-speech, and grammar tools to support different learning styles.

 Accessing Immersive Reader

You can use Immersive Reader in:
•    Microsoft Word (Online & Desktop)
•    OneNote (Windows, Mac, iPad, Online)
•    Edge Browser (for web pages & PDFs)
•    Microsoft Teams (assignments & messages)
•    Outlook (emails)

How to Open It:    

• Word/OneNote:   Click View > Immersive Reader.
  •    Edge:   Right-click text and select  Open in Immersive Reader.
  •    Teams/Outlook:   Click the three dots (…) and select Immersive Reader.

Key Features for Dyslexia Support

Customize Text for Readability
✅ Click on Text Preferences (Aa icon) to:
✅ Adjust font size and line spacing.
✅ Use dyslexia-friendly fonts (e.g., Arial, Verdana, Comic Sans, or OpenDyslexic).
✅ Change background colour under Page Theme (e.g., cream, soft yellow, pastel blue, or light green) to reduce glare and visual stress.

Read Aloud (Text-to-Speech)
✅  Click the Play button to have text read aloud.
✅ Adjust reading speed and select different voices for comfort.

 Grammar & Word Assistance
✅ Syllables: Break words into parts (e.g., dys-lex-i-a) for better pronunciation.
✅ Parts of Speech: Highlight nouns, verbs, and adjectives in different colors.
✅ Picture Dictionary: Click on a word to see an image representation.

Focus & Tracking Tools
✅Line Focus: Highlights one or a few lines at a time to improve concentration.
✅ Translate: Convert text into different languages for multilingual learners.

Teaching Strategies with Immersive Reader

✅ Guided Reading:   Let students follow along as text is read aloud.
✅ Phonics & Spelling Practice:   Use syllable breakdowns to reinforce word structure.
✅ Independent Reading:   Allow students to customize settings for personal comfort.
✅ Writing Support:   Use Dictation (speech-to-text) in Word or OneNote to help with writing difficulties.