Definition of Dyslexia
“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.”
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Adopted by the IDA Board of Directors, Nov. 12, 2002. This Definition is also used by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD). Many state education codes, including New Jersey, Ohio and Utah, have adopted this definition. Learn more about how consensus was reached on this definition: Definition Consensus Project.
Dyslexia at a Glance
Dyslexia affects people of all backgrounds and intelligence levels. Dyslexia is the most common learning disability. Over 40 million American Adults are dyslexic - and only 2 million know it. One in five students has dyslexia. Dyslexia can affect reading, spelling, writing, handwriting, math, and so much more.
Dyslexia is a neurological condition caused by a different wiring of the brain. There is no cure for dyslexia and individuals with this condition can learn.
Research indicates that dyslexia has no relationship to intelligence. Individuals with dyslexia are neither more nor less intelligent than the general population. But the way individuals with dyslexia "THINK" and learn in a spatial visual way which can actually be an asset in achieving success.
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Learning Deficits that Dyslexics Can Struggle with
Learning Left and Right
Selecting a Dominant Hand
Learning and Mixing up Directional Words
Reversals of Letters and Numbers
Confusion Where to Start Writing or Reading on a Page
Reading and Spelling
Comprehension
Handwriting-Print and Cursive
Linking Sounds with Letters
Sequencing
Following Directions
Learning to Tie Shoes
Learning to Tell Time
Remembering a Phone Number or Address
Sequence of Days of the Week
Sequence of Seasons and Months
Addition & Subtraction Math Facts
Multiplication Math Facts
Learning the sequence of a 2 or 3 Digit Multiplication Problem
Place Value
Confusion on Odd and Even Numbers
Long Division
Mixing up Mirror Imaged Words
Typing
Opening a Master Lock
Finding the Correct Word to Use When Speaking or Writing
Rote Memory
Writing a Paragraph or Essay
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