The Challenges Involved in Teaching Biblical Hebrew to Students With Dyslexia: Some Observations

Abstract

Studying Biblical Hebrew is increasingly considered a viable option for students with dyslexia. This presents particular challenges not just for the students but also for their teachers, because the pedagogical methods for teaching ancient languages have traditionally depended on strategies that create difficulties for dyslexic students. This paper outlines the particular challenges of Biblical Hebrew for teachers of students with dyslexia and makes some proposals for addressing those challenges. Responding to dyslexia research, this paper considers the effects of phonological, morphological, and other deficits; outlines teaching and assessment strategies; and argues that learning Biblical Hebrew can be a transformative experience for students with specific learning difficulties.