Learning Resources
Learning Differences & Dyslexia
Parent Resources
Dyslexia Facts
- Definition & Origin: Dyslexia is neurological in origin and a multifaceted condition that affects language skills like reading (decoding), spelling (orthography), and writing.
- Learning Potential: Dyslexia is unrelated to intelligence (IQ) or motivation. With evidence-based, direct, and systematic instruction, individuals with dyslexia can succeed academically.
- Teaching Reading: Speaking is natural for most children, but reading and writing require explicit teaching.
- Misconceptions: People with dyslexia do not necessarily see or write letters or words backward. Dyslexic students are not lazy.
- Prevalence: 15-20% of the population shows dyslexia-related symptoms, including slow or inaccurate reading, poor spelling, and writing struggles. Not all qualify for special education but may face academic challenges.
- Later Challenges: Some individuals manage early skills but struggle with advanced tasks like grammar, complex text comprehension, and writing assignments.
- Signs of Dyslexia: Potential early indicators include delayed speech, difficulty rhyming, trouble learning letters/numbers, and slow vocabulary acquisition.
- Co-occurring Conditions: Dyslexia may coexist with dyscalculia (math difficulty), dysgraphia (writing difficulty), developmental language disorder (DLD), or ADHD.
- Importance of Early Intervention: Early identification and intervention are crucial. Research shows 70% of 3rd graders reading below grade level never catch up.
- Importance of Honoring Home Language and Expanding Opportunities: Recognizing and valuing students' home languages or dialects fosters a sense of identity and inclusion. We help bridge the gap between their home language and academic proficiency by providing additional opportunities to engage with General American English.
- Integrated Skill Development Over Time: Developing reading and writing proficiency requires integrating various skills, such as vocabulary, comprehension, phonics, grammar, and fluency. This process is cumulative and benefits from sustained, deliberate practice and instruction.
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