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 GLOSSARY OF TERMS 

School Vision Screening Glossary

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Astigmatism

Blurred or distorted vision caused by the front surface of the eye being shaped more like a rugby ball than a soccer ball.

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Auto Refraction

A computerized measurement used to estimate a child’s spectacle prescription. It helps detect short-sightedness, far-sightedness, and astigmatism.

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Binocular Vision

The ability of both eyes to work together comfortably and accurately as a team.

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Colour Vision

The ability to correctly identify and distinguish different colours.

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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.

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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.

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Emmetropia

Normal vision without the need for spectacles, where light focuses correctly on the retina.

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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.

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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.

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Near Point of Convergence (NPC)

A test that measures how well the eyes can turn inward together when focusing on a near object.

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Pursuits

Smooth eye movements used to follow a moving object accurately with the eyes.

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Reduced Vision

Vision that is below the expected level for a child’s age and may affect learning, reading, sports, or daily activities.

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Retinoscopy

A clinical procedure used to estimate a child’s spectacle prescription by observing how light reflects from the eyes.

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Saccades

Quick eye movements used when reading, copying from the board, or shifting attention between objects.

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Stereo Vision (Depth Perception)

The ability to judge distances and see in three dimensions using both eyes together.

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Tracking

The ability to move the eyes accurately and smoothly across a page while reading or copying work.

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Vision Therapy

A customized programme of activities designed to improve visual skills such as focusing, eye tracking, eye coordination, and binocular vision.

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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

  • Frequent headaches

  • Squinting

  • Rubbing eyes often

  • Poor concentration

  • Losing place while reading

  • Avoiding reading

  • Holding books very close

  • Tilting the head

  • 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.


 

 

For appointments, book online: https://bit.ly/tomlinsonbookinglink

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