The University of Kentucky Literacy Clinic serves readers from first grade to high school adolescents who are having reading difficulties. We provide assessment (e.g., tests, observations) and instruction to readers in an after-school setting, while working with parents and caregivers on literacy learning.
Mission
The University of Kentucky Literacy Clinic is a resource to the university and surrounding Kentucky communities. The clinic serves readers from first grade to high school adolescents who are having reading difficulties. University faculty members also provide teacher education to educators regarding how to assess and provide differentiated instruction to striving readers. Because strong literacy practices involve both school and home participation, the clinic also works to develop a partnership with home representatives (i.e., parents, caregivers) regarding literacy learning.
Literacy Clinic FAQ
How can I determine if a reader might benefit from the Literacy Clinic services?
Every reader is different, but a child will likely benefit from Literacy Clinic services if you notice the child:
- avoiding reading or complaining about reading.
- either rushing through reading without noticing errors or reading slowly with difficulty.
- having a hard time explaining what he or she just read.
- does not recognize words that he or she has encountered repeatedly.
- having a hard time with school work when any type of reading is involved.
When and where do tutoring sessions occur?
Tutoring occurs Thursdays for one hour immediately after school. Tutoring occurs in a local school each semester. The location varies each semester as we try to provide assistance in various schools throughout Fayette County.
How do I place my reader on the list of potential clients?
You may contact Dr. Janice Almasi at janice.almasi@uky.edu to place your child on a list of potential clients. Space is limited for the UK Literacy Clinic program. The number of clients we are able to accept varies each semester.
What is the cost of Literacy Clinic services?
All families are welcome, regardless of income level. If your child is accepted for full tutoring in our after-school tutoring program there is no cost.
How will I know if my reader has been accepted for services?
You will receive confirmation of acceptance from Dr. Janice Almasi.
What is the procedure for tutoring days?
On Thursdays immediately after school, children meet their tutors in an assigned room at the school. Tutoring sessions last for 50 minutes. Sessions will include administering assessments and individualized instruction in a one-on-one or small group setting. After instruction is complete, tutors and readers will meet families at the school entrance to talk about the session. For about 10 minutes tutors will share assessment/test results and instructional ideas with families. The aim for this last 10 minutes is to help families to support readers at home and school.
Will a middle school or high school reader benefit from Literacy Clinic services?
Middle and high school readers may benefit from working with a Clinic tutor on:
- reading strategies in the content areas (e.g., English, math, science, social studies).
- vocabulary building and strategies.
- study skills, though the Literacy Clinic not provide specific test preparation.
- literacy life skills, such as filling out job applications and navigating everyday tasks.
- improving approaches to different text genres, such as a memoir versus a novel.
Are adult readers accepted for services?
No, the Literacy Clinic is unable to provide assessment and instruction for adults.
What is not part of Literacy Clinic services?
The Clinic concentrates on improving children’s reading, writing, listening, and speaking practices. Although tutors may touch on the following components, the Clinic tutors do not provide:
- homework help that is not linked to improving literacy learning.
- test preparation.
- diagnosis of a specific literacy disability.
Does the Literacy Clinic help with writing?
Yes, we consider literacy to be reading, writing, listening, and speaking, therefore if there is need, a tutor may work with the child on:
- word study and spelling strategies.
- organizing and planning writing.
- mechanics (e.g., punctuation) and structures (e.g., paragraphs) of writing and how literacy practices are involved.
Who can I contact with questions?
For questions specifically about the UK Literacy Clinic, please contact the Dr. Janice Almasi at janice.almasi@uky.edu or 859-257-1981.