1. What is dyslexia?

2. Definition of Dyslexia adopted by IDA Dyslexia is a specific learning disability that is neurological 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.

3. Dyslexia Dyslexia is one of several distinct learning disabilities. It is a specific language based disorder of single word decoding. It reflects insufficient phonological processing abilities. It is unexpected in relation to age and other cognitive & academic abilities.

4. Prevalence of Dyslexia Dyslexia affects one out of every five children. The majority of those with dyslexia are not identified until at least 3 rd grade. Reading disabilities make up 80% of all learning disabilities. Research shows that an equal number of boys and girls have dyslexia, but more boys are identified for special education services. Dyslexia is found throughout the world in many different languages. Comparable prevalence rates were found among American, Japanese, and Chinese children.

5. Characteristics of Dyslexia Difficulty with accurate and fluent word recognition Poor spelling skills Poor decoding abilities Misreads common words Poor reading fluency Difficulties with written language

6. Self Concept of Students with Dyslexia Children with dyslexia have more negative than positive experiences after entering school. Self-concept is negatively affected. Negative behaviors may develop. The student may ask, “Am I dumb?” or “Is something wrong with me?” Students may avoid tasks perceived as difficult to avoid risk of failure. The possibility of more positive experiences must be increased. Students need to be provided experiences in which they can be successful.

7. Related Disorders Reading Comprehension Disorder Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Dysgraphia - Difficulty in handwriting Social Interaction – Social skills weakness Dyscalculia – Difficulty in math Problems memorizing math facts Oral Language Disorders – Receptive Language Expressive Language

8. Sources Shelton Academic Language Approach: Therapeutic Implementation of Written Language Skills Intervention for Students with Dyslexia Director of Outreach & Training – Nancy Coffman, MS, LDT, CALT, QI Overcoming Dyslexia Sally Shaywitz, M.D.