Dyslexia FAQ

What is 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.”

• Source: International Dyslexia Association

Signs of Dyslexia by Age/Stage:
For a detailed overview of the signs of dyslexia at different developmental stages, visit Yale’s Dyslexia site.

Prevalence

Dyslexia affects an estimated 15-20% of the population, with no significant difference in prevalence between boys and girls. The impact of dyslexia varies, ranging from minor to significant.

Intervention

Effective intervention for dyslexia involves multisensory structured language education, using methods that incorporate visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and tactile teaching approaches. Interventions should be based on the Orton-Gillingham methodology.

Outcomes

With the right instruction, students with dyslexia can learn to read successfully. The length and outcome of the intervention vary among students, and in some cases, different programs may need to be explored. While dyslexia is not “cured,” individuals with dyslexia can become effective readers.

Dyslexia Resources

• International Dyslexia Association
• Academic Language Therapy Association

Understanding Dyslexia

Dyslexia is a neurological condition with a spectrum ranging from mild to severe. Famous individuals in various fields have been dyslexic, and Green River Literacy’s students include talented painters, photographers, entrepreneurs, and more. Given the right tools, they have embraced their learning identities.

“What is Dyslexia” by Kelli Sandman-Hurley – TED ED Video

Common Questions about Dyslexia

• What is dyslexia? Dyslexia is a neurobiological learning disability affecting reading, spelling, and decoding abilities, often hereditary and presenting differently in each individual.
• How common is dyslexia? Approximately 15-20% of the population has a language-based learning disability like dyslexia.
• Does dyslexia impact intelligence? No, dyslexia is unrelated to intelligence. People with dyslexia are often intelligent and creative thinkers.
• What is the appropriate instruction for dyslexia? Structured literacy instruction is essential, focusing on explicit, systematic, and cumulative delivery, and multi-sensory learning experiences.

Signs or Red Flags for Dyslexia

Early indicators of dyslexia include challenges in reading, spelling, and understanding the relationship between letters and sounds.

Myths and Misunderstandings Surrounding Dyslexia

• Myth: Dyslexics see things backward.
  Truth: Dyslexia is a processing issue unrelated to vision.
• Myth: The child just needs to try harder.
  Truth: Dyslexia requires more time and appropriate instruction, not just effort.
• Myth: Dyslexics aren’t smart.
  Truth: Intelligence and dyslexia are not connected; many dyslexics are highly intelligent.
• Myth: Dyslexia goes away.
  Truth: Dyslexia is lifelong, but with the right intervention, individuals can become proficient readers and writers.

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