The HSA Public Release 2009 is provided in two electronic braille formats - a braille ready file (.brf) and a translated and formatted Megadots file (.meb). The .brf file can be read on a refreshable braille device (PacMate, BrailleNote). Download the .brf file and save to your computer Then follow your electronic braille notetaker directions for transferring files from a computer to the particular device. To produce hardcopy braille, you can utilize the .meb file. If using Megadots, open the .meb file while in Megadots and send the formatted document to your embosser. If using Duxbury, open Duxbury and go to Global Settings. Select Formatted braille importer and check the box that says, "Import formatted Braille without interpretation." Import the .brf file and send the formatted document to your embosser.
Note that the graphics are not produced in these electronic files. The Public Release 2009 for English does not have a need for tactile graphics. Both Biology and Algebra do require the use of tactile graphics and these are provided in a hardcopy supplement. Transcriber's Notes are inserted within items with graphics and refer the student to use the HSA Public Release 2009 Tactile Graphics Supplement. The Tactile Graphics Supplement will be mailed upon request.
Teachers' Notes for Braille can be downloaded/printed below. These are provided to identify and explain which items have been modified in braille, where graphics are omitted, the text provided for picture descriptions/Transcriber's Notes, which items have graphics in the supplement, and any changes to the directions, etc.
To obtain a copy of the HSA Public Release 2009 Tactile Graphics Supplement for Algebra or Biology or if you have questions, please contact Lisa Wright, Statewide Vision/Low Incidence Specialist at 410-767-0821.
HSA Public Release 2009 Braille files available:
HSA Algebra PR.brf | HSA Algebra PR.meb | HSA Algebra Examiner's Notes for Braille.doc
HSA Biology PR.brf | HSA Biology PR.meb | HSA Biology Examiner's Notes for Braille.doc
HSA English PR.brf | HSA English PR.meb | HSA English Examiner's Notes for Braille.doc
