Dyslexia

Dyslexia is a neurological learning disability that affects reading, spelling, and writing. It often runs in families and involves difficulty with phonological processing—the ability to recognize and work with the sounds in spoken language.

October is Dyslexia Awareness Month.

October is Learning Disabilities Awareness Month, which includes awareness of dyslexia. Dyslexia Awareness Day is observed on October 8th each year.

What is Dyslexia?

Dyslexia is a neurological condition that primarily affects a person’s reading, spelling, and writing ability. It is a specific learning disability that has a neurological basis, and it often runs in families. Individuals with dyslexia may have difficulty with phonological processing, which involves the ability to recognize and manipulate the sounds of spoken language.

Educational Tips

Communication

  • Speak clearly and slowly: When giving instructions, speak slowly and clearly, and make sure each syllable is clear.
  • Use short sentences: Use simple, short sentences instead of multiple sentences to say the same thing.
  • Avoid complex terms: Avoid using technical or complex terms.
  • Use visual aids: Use charts and diagrams to help students understand and remember information.
  • Break down words: Teach students to break words down into smaller sounds, or phonemes, to help with pronunciation and understanding.
  • Provide outlines: Provide outlines of lectures to help students follow the lesson and ask questions.

  • Use technology: Record directions using technology so students can listen to them as often as needed.
  • Use autocorrect: Use autocorrect on a computer to help students type.
  • Use color coding: Allow students to highlight or color-code assessments. 
  • Use a Livescribe SmartPen: Use a Livescribe SmartPen to capture everything a student hears and writes in class.
  • Use Whispersync: Whispersync allows a computer or tablet to read papers, notes, and other materials back to a student.
  • Avoid forcing students to read aloud, especially if they haven’t had time to prepare.

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