Photocopying & Making Enlarged CopiesBy: Carmen Willings
teachingvisuallyimpaired.com Updated June 17, 2025 Teachers often enlarge printed materials for students with visual impairments with the best of intentions. However, over-enlarging can be counterproductive. The primary goal should be to use the least amount of magnification necessary to allow students to access the content, while also promoting independence and efficient use of materials.
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
Tips for Making High-Quality Photocopies or ScansTo ensure that maps, charts, diagrams, and worksheets are usable:
Tips for Making Enlarged Copies on a CopierWhen digital formats (Word or PDF) are unavailable, follow these steps for copier enlargement:
Important Considerations
"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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