Students with Print Disabilities Can Participate in Battle of the Books

Students with print disabilities, such as blindness or low vision, a physical disability, or a severe learning disability like dyslexia, can participate in their school and state Battles of the Books!

What is “Battle of the Books” you might ask? It’s a voluntary incentive reading program for students in grades 3 to 12. Throughout the year, students read the books on the Battle lists and then compete in local battles or tournaments, answering questions about the books, like the College Bowl. Winning teams may compete in their regional or state tournaments.

Participation in Battles would be difficult for students who have a hard time reading printed content. However, Bookshare now has a Special Collection with all the Battle books in accessible formats, so students with print disabilities can read with their preferred accommodations and compete. To download and read the books, students must be qualified for Bookshare and have a membership through their school or as an individual. Memberships are free for all U.S. students, thanks to an award from the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs. Books are free for qualified students. There are no costs at all.

Battles typically occur in March or April, so there’s still time for students with print disabilities to read and participate. Schools with scheduled Battles, get your students with print disabilities involved. Or give the students time to read and schedule a Battle later this spring. It sounds like a fun way to read.