For reading tasks, low vision devices (such as magnifiers or video magnifiers) are often the preferred method. These tools empower students to access all printed materials, not just pre-enlarged ones, and help build lifelong adaptive skills. However, for writing tasks (e.g., math worksheets, labeling diagrams or maps), enlargements are sometimes necessary to provide enough space for handwriting and to allow students to view finer details. ​

Instructional Tip by Grade Level

  • Preschool–Grade 2: Enlarged worksheets may be appropriate when developing early writing and visual-motor skills. Consider pairing with visual access tools.
  • Grades 3–5: Begin shifting to the use of magnification tools for reading while reserving enlargements for diagrams, math, or crowded worksheets.
  • Grades 6–8: Encourage the use of assistive technology and low vision tools. Support students in learning to advocate for accessible materials in multiple formats, such as annotating PDFs on a tablet using a note-taking app and a smart stylus.
  • High School & Beyond: Prioritize independence by using digital tools, magnification software, or alternate formats (e.g., digital text or audio). Avoid routine enlargements except when writing space is critical.

Tips for Making High-Quality Photocopies or Scans

High-quality copies are essential for students with visual impairments, as blurry, low-contrast, or distorted materials can significantly impact comprehension and access. Use the following best practices to ensure that maps, charts, diagrams, and worksheets are clear, legible, and visually usable:
  • Clean the copier glass before scanning or copying. Dust, fingerprints, and smudges can create shadows, lines, or blotches that reduce clarity, particularly problematic for students with low vision or those relying on tactile graphics.
  • Use fresh toner to ensure crisp, high-contrast output. Faded or streaky copies have lower contrast and may make fine details unreadable. Replace or shake toner cartridges when print begins to fade (if permitted in your district).
  • Choose the correct copier settings
    • Select the “photo,” “high quality,” or “detailed image” setting for maps, charts, and diagrams.
    • Use the darken/lighten feature to increase contrast if the original is faint.
    • Disable automatic background smoothing features that may wash out important lines.
  • Press down firmly on book spines when copying from bound texts. This reduces blur near the center margin (gutter) and ensures that text or graphics near the fold remain visible. Place a clean sheet of paper on top of the book to help distribute pressure evenly.
  • Insert white paper between pages when copying from double-sided books. This prevents reverse-side text or images (“bleed-through”) from interfering with the copy, improving contrast and reducing visual clutter.
  • Align the original carefully. Straighten the page on the glass to avoid angled copies or unnecessary borders. Misalignment can introduce visual clutter or distort important features. If the copier automatically produces a thick black frame, adjust scaling or reposition the page to eliminate it.
  • Check the first copy before printing multiple sets. Ensure the contrast is adequate, all content is visible, and no essential details are lost—especially important for tactile graphics enlargements or braille transcription.
  • Consider enlarging originals before copying. Enlargement (e.g., 121%, 129%, or higher) can improve readability for low-vision students but should be used thoughtfully so the layout remains functional.
Producing clean, crisp copies ensures that students with visual impairments have access to the high-quality materials they need for accurate reading, interpretation, and participation in instruction.

Tips for Making Enlarged Copies on a Copier

When digital formats (Word or PDF) are unavailable, follow these steps for copier enlargement:
  1. Use 11x17 paper to allow the enlarged content to fit on one page.
  2. Load 11x17 paper into the bypass tray manually.
  3. Place the original horizontally, face down on the glass.
  4. Select “Reduce/Enlarge” then choose “Bypass” for paper source.
  5. Enter a zoom percentage (typically 135%).
  6. Press “OK” and print a test page.
  7. Reset the copier when finished.
Tip: Post a printed pictorial guide near the copier for quick reference. You can find a free version on the Program Printables page of my site.

​Important Considerations

  • Avoid excessive enlargement. Larger print isn't always better as it increases page count, reduces reading fluency, and limits access to spontaneous materials.
  • Use large print strategically. Reserve for materials where detail and space are needed (e.g., maps, diagrams, math problems with many steps).
  • Balance efficiency and skill development. Teach students to use magnification tools as early as possible to encourage independence.
"Photocopy enlarging should depend on the abilities, ages, and preferences of students. Large print should be the last choice when enlargement is effective, since it restricts the reader to only enlarged texts and takes time and money to produce." -Low Vision: A Resource Guide with Adaptations for Students with Visual Impairments. TSBVI p.91

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