Dyslexia

Dyslexia is a neurological difference that means that people with dylsexia learn differently.  Everyone is unique and so each person will experience dyslexia differently and the impact that it has on their learning and their life will vary from person to person.  Thinking differently can be a strength and there are many famous and highly successful people out there proving this point!

There are several definitions of dyslexia.  The definition in the Rose Report (2009) is commonly used and recognised.

Dyslexia is a learning difficulty that primarily affects the skills involved in accurate and fluent word reading and spelling. Characteristic features of dyslexia are difficulties in phonological awareness, verbal memory and verbal processing speed. Dyslexia occurs across the range of intellectual abilities. It is best thought of as a continuum, not a distinct category, and there are no clear cut-off points. Co-occurring difficulties may be seen in aspects of language, motor co-ordination, mental calculation, concentration and personal organisation, but these are not, by themselves, markers of dyslexia. A good indication of the severity and persistence of dyslexic difficulties can be gained by examining how the individual responds or has responded to well-founded intervention.

In addition to these characteristics:

The British Dyslexia Association (BDA) acknowledges the visual and auditory processing difficulties that some individuals with dyslexia can experience, and points out that dyslexic readers can show a combination of abilities and difficulties that affect the learning process. Some also have strengths in other areas, such as design, problem solving, creative skills, interactive skills and oral skills.

BDA (2010)

• The Dyslexia Association Nottinghamshire

• British Dyslexia Association 

• Helen Arkell for dyslexia support and advice 

• Patoss