Unlocking Learning for All: The Power of Symbols in Your Classroom

At LGfL we strive to support the creation of learning environments where learning is accessible, engaging, and where every voice is heard. 

One powerful tool that can help us achieve this is the effective use of symbols.  For over a decade, LGfL has partnered with Widgit Symbols to promote inclusive learning through the LGfL Widgit Symbol Collection.  In keeping with our commitment to Universal Design for Learning, we have developed a new support portal showcasing three diverse schools that use symbols throughout their administrative and everyday teaching and learning operations. This ensures all learners can access the curriculum and navigate the wider school environment effectively.

The schools are:  Christopher Hatton Primary School – Camden Evergreen SEND School – Warwick Chalgrove Primary School - Barnet

So, why should we be thinking about symbols in our daily practice?

Why Symbols Matter for Diverse Learners

Symbols aren't just pictures; they are potent visual representations of words or concepts. This visual aspect is key because it can make learning…

Clear and relatable 

• Simplify complex information, breaking it down into smaller, more manageable chunks
• Aid memory by providing a visual cue that helps pupils recall information.
• Make learning more accessible for pupils with learning difficulties, language barriers, or those new to a particular subject.

Engaging and interactive, particularly for younger pupils.

• Symbols can actually help all students, including those with visual or learning difficulties, and are particularly beneficial for students learning English. 

Benefits for all

• Using symbols is a practical way we can adapt lessons to help all learners.

Enhancing Communication and Independence

• Beyond learning academic concepts, symbols can play a vital role in communication. They can facilitate communication, allowing pupils to express themselves even if they struggle with written or spoken language. This ability to express needs and thoughts promotes two-way dialogue between teachers and students.

Real-world examples of impact

At Evergreen School, symbols are used to promote self-awareness and enable students to feel a sense of independence and being listened to. They help pupils communicate what they need or like for an activity, can assist pupils with communication challenges, and are used for daily timetables to show routines and let pupils choose activities. They describe their use of symbols as a way of creating a communication-friendly environment.

Creating Truly Inclusive Classrooms

Using symbols effectively isn't about lowering expectations; it's about adapting our approach to meet the needs of each child. As highlighted by Alison Eason at Chalgrove Primary School, we should maintain high expectations of all our pupils, and it's our responsibility to make our teaching and environments adaptive to that child's needs. Symbols can be a key tool in this adaptation; giving voice to every learner

Putting Symbols to Work: Practical Strategies

To truly unlock the power of symbols, consistency and integration are key. 

Clear & Consistent: 

Symbols must be simple, direct, and avoid complexity. Use each symbol consistently across the classroom. Make symbols large enough and place them where everyone can see them.

Part of Learning: 

Connect symbols to activities like labelling, routines, or lessons. Integrate them into your teaching, don't just use them for display.

Encourage Interaction: 

Go beyond passive display. Encourage interaction using symbols for expressing needs, choosing activities, or sequencing tasks.

The importance of a consistent whole school approach is also emphasised. Rebecca Ryan at Christopher Hatton Primary School explains how their whole school use of symbols makes their emphasis on reading for pleasure visible and reinforces its importance to the children.

And finally…

Symbols are far more than just visual aids; they are essential tools for enhancing learning accessibility, facilitating communication, and building inclusive classrooms for our diverse student population.

By implementing them clearly, consistently, and interactively, we can truly give voice and independence to every learner.

How are you using symbols in your classroom or school? Share your ideas below via included@lgfl.net

Related links:

• http://symbols.lgfl.net/ - New Symbols support portal

• http://whyedtech.lgfl.net/ - Advice on the rationale behind EdTech adoption in schools

• http://udl.lgfl.net/ - Universal Design for Learning support portal to remove barriers to learning

• http://included.lgfl.net – access to all of the LGfL inclusion support service