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- Make the tactile graphic as clear as possible. Always keep in mind the
point of view of the braille reader. It is up to the producer to present the
information in a clear, concise manner for the student.
- Know the important facts to be kept in mind when creating the graphic.
- Determine if the original shapes and textures are necessary to convey the
concept, or can simple geometric shapes or braille signs be used to illustrate
the concept.
- Omit unnecessary parts of the diagram (i.e. unreferenced or irrelevant
sections of a map) so that the original shapes and textures can be presented
on a larger and clearer scale.
- Keep in mind the knowledge level, skill base, and age level of the reader.
Use age appropriate language.
- Determine if the text requires measurements to be made or an operation to
be performed, or if the original shapes, textures and total form are necessary
to convey the concept. If so, the lines and angles are reproduced retaining a
proper scale.
- Remember to keep it simple; unnecessary information, clutter, may prohibit
the student from gaining relevant information therefore making the graphic
useless.
- Edit/proofread the graphic with your fingers, not your eyes, before
showing it to a student. Beware, if someone says your graphic is "pretty" or
"beautiful", take a second look, your student may not be able to understand it
at all.
Source: American Foundation for the Blind Braille Literacy Mentors in
Training: The Next Generation - Teaching Special Codes: Nemeth, CBC, and Tactile
Graphics - Workshop in Fremont, California (August 7-9, 1997) and Atlanta,
Georgia (September 11-13, 1997). Diane Spence and Susan A. Osterhaus
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