DYSLEXIA

The word dyslexia comes from the Greek language and means poor language. Individuals with dyslexia have trouble with reading, writing, spelling and/or math although they have the ability and have had opportunities to learn. Individuals with dyslexia can learn; they just learn in a different way. Often these individuals, who have talented and productive minds, are said to have a language learning difference.

Dyslexia affects individuals throughout their lives; however, its impact can change at different stages in a person’s life. It is referred to as a learning disability because dyslexia can make it very difficult for a student to succeed academically in the typical instructional environment, and in its more severe forms, will qualify a student for special education, special accommodations, or extra support services.

– Dyslexia is the most common language-based learning disability.

– Scientists and researchers estimate that up to 20% of the population has dyslexia.

– People with dyslexia tend to have average to above-average intelligence.

– Dyslexia affects boys and girls equally.

– The causes of dyslexia are neurological and genetic.

– Dyslexia is not a vision problem.

– Deficit in the phonological component of the language

– Difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word recognition

– Poor spelling and decoding abilities

– Impedes students’ ability to succeed academically

– Effects of dyslexia reach well beyond classrooms

– There is no cure for dyslexia. It is a lifelong condition

– Reading skills can be developed with early intervention and the right instruction.

–Proper instruction promotes reading success and alleviates many difficulties associated with dyslexia.

International Dyslexia Association (IDA) Dyslexia Handbook