Multi-sensory Teaching System for Reading (MTSR) is a set of materials for use in mainstream primary schools with children experiencing reading difficulties. It is a structured multi-sensory programme, which can be delivered by a teacher or teaching assistant under a teacher's supervision. It can be used for teaching small groups of up to six pupils within the ordinary classroom. The system is based on a programme used extensively and with great success in several states in the USA to teach literacy to all children. The UK edition has been developed following trials of the American materials in English primary schools as part of a DfEE funded research project. MTSR is particularly useful with pupils with specific learning difficulties, including those with mild to moderate dyslexia. However, it may be used to help any child to acquire phonic skills and those experiencing difficulties at 'word' level.
Mike Johnson and Sylvia Phillips
Lecturers in Special Educational Needs in CIESEN, Manchester Metropolitan University