
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
School Vision Screening Glossary
Astigmatism
Blurred or distorted vision caused by the front surface of the eye being shaped more like a rugby ball than a soccer ball.
Auto Refraction
A computerized measurement used to estimate a child’s spectacle prescription. It helps detect short-sightedness, far-sightedness, and astigmatism.
Binocular Vision
The ability of both eyes to work together comfortably and accurately as a team.
Colour Vision
The ability to correctly identify and distinguish different colours.
Convergence Insufficiency
A condition where the eyes struggle to work together at near distances, especially during reading or close work. Symptoms may include headaches, double vision, eye strain, or poor concentration.
Cover Test
A test used to check eye alignment and determine whether the eyes are working together properly. It can help identify eye turns or focusing problems.
Emmetropia
Normal vision without the need for spectacles, where light focuses correctly on the retina.
Eye Screening
A quick assessment used to identify children who may have visual difficulties and may require a full eye examination. A screening does not replace a comprehensive eye test.
Hyperopia (Far-sightedness)
Difficulty focusing on near objects. Children may experience headaches, tired eyes, or difficulty concentrating during reading and schoolwork.
Myopia (Short-sightedness)
Difficulty seeing distant objects clearly, such as the classroom board or signs far away.
Near Point of Convergence (NPC)
A test that measures how well the eyes can turn inward together when focusing on a near object.
Pursuits
Smooth eye movements used to follow a moving object accurately with the eyes.
Reduced Vision
Vision that is below the expected level for a child’s age and may affect learning, reading, sports, or daily activities.
Retinoscopy
A clinical procedure used to estimate a child’s spectacle prescription by observing how light reflects from the eyes.
Saccades
Quick eye movements used when reading, copying from the board, or shifting attention between objects.
Stereo Vision (Depth Perception)
The ability to judge distances and see in three dimensions using both eyes together.
Tracking
The ability to move the eyes accurately and smoothly across a page while reading or copying work.
Vision Therapy
A customized programme of activities designed to improve visual skills such as focusing, eye tracking, eye coordination, and binocular vision.
Visual Acuity
A measurement of how clearly a child can see letters or symbols at distance or near.
Important Symptoms That May Suggest a Vision Problem
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Frequent headaches
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Squinting
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Rubbing eyes often
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Poor concentration
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Losing place while reading
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Avoiding reading
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Holding books very close
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Tilting the head
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Complaints of blurred or double vision
Important Note
A school vision screening helps identify possible visual difficulties that may impact learning and development. It does not replace a comprehensive eye examination by an optometrist or ophthalmologist.
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