What Is Dyslexia?

Definition

“Dyslexia is a specific learning disability that is neurobiological in origin. It is characterized by difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities. These difficulties typically result from a deficit in the phonological component of language that is often unexpected in relation to other cognitive abilities and the provision of effective classroom instruction. Secondary consequences may include problems in reading comprehension and reduced reading experience that can impede growth of vocabulary and background knowledge.”

IDEA Regulations

(10) Specific learning disability—(i) General. Specific learning disability
means a disorder in one or more of the basic psychological processes involved in understanding or in using language, spoken or written, that may manifest
itself in the imperfect ability to listen, think, speak, read, write, spell, or to do
mathematical calculations, including conditions such as perceptual disabilities, brain injury, minimal brain
dysfunction, dyslexia, and
developmental aphasia.
(ii) Disorders not included. Specific learning disability does not include learning problems that are primarily the result of visual, hearing, or motor disabilities, of mental retardation, of emotional disturbance, or of environmental, cultural, or economic disadvantage

Facts

  • 15-20% of population is affected

  • 70-80% of Specific Learning disabilities are Dyslexia

  • Students who receive effective phonological training in kindergarten or first grade have fewer problems learning to read in third grade

  • Dyslexia has a genetic link

Common Signs

  • Late talker

  • Difficulty rhyming

  • Difficulty pronouncing words or mixing up sounds in words

  • Unable to recall a word “that thingy”

  • Difficulty learning the alphabet, numbers or how to spell name

  • Difficulty reading words in isolation

  • Difficulty learning sight words

  • Reads small words incorrectly

  • May transpose letters or numbers

  • May have trouble remembering math facts

May have difficulty with writing or an awkward pencil grip

ABC’s of Dyslexia. (2000). International Dyslexia Association.

http://www.readingrockets.org/article/common-signs-dyslexia-preschool-grade-4