What is Dyslexia?
Ten percent of the population are believed to be dyslexic, but it is still often poorly misunderstood (BDA).
- Manifestation
Dyslexia is a set of processing difficulties that affect the acquisition of reading and spelling. The most commonly observed cognitive impairment in dyslexia is a difficulty in phonological processing (i.e. in phonological awareness, phonological processing speed or phonological memory). However, phonological difficulties do not fully explain the variability that is observed. Working memory, processing speed and orthographic skills can contribute to the impact of dyslexia.
- Nature
The nature and developmental trajectory of dyslexia depends on multiple genetic and environmental influences.
- Impact
In dyslexia, some or all aspects of literacy attainment are weak in relation to age, standard teaching and instruction, and level of other attainments. Across languages and age groups, difficulties in reading and spelling fluency are a key marker of dyslexia.
- Variance and co-occurrence
Dyslexic difficulties exist on a continuum and can be experienced to various degrees of severity. Dyslexia can affect the acquisition of other skills, such as mathematics, reading comprehension or learning another language. Dyslexia frequently co-occurs with one or more other developmental difficulties, including developmental language disorder, dyscalculia, ADHD, and developmental coordination disorder.
See dyslexia differently.
This animation seeks to pre-empt misconceptions among young audiences by shedding light on the real challenges dyslexic children face whilst also acknowledging their strengths and potential.
Understanding dyslexia.
Nessy is an award winning, global educational company that specialises in early literacy. They have put together a fantastic, fun and easy to follow guide to help parents or teachers learn the basics of dyslexia. Click on their logo to learn more.
Neurodiversity and Co-occurring Differences
Dyslexia is one of a number of Specific Learning Difficulties or Differences. It is common for dyslexia to occur alongside another SpLDs, rather than in isolation. Good information can be found about Neurodiversity and co-occurring differences on the BDA website.
“My teacher has told me how much better my English is and I get better results in spelling tests. I even use the rhymes to help me with my spelling when I am texting my friends!”
“I know that what Mrs Morris has taught me will help me so much in secondary school. I’ll never forget what she has taught me.”
“So pleased [my son] is visiting you weekly now…the look on his face shows how much he enjoys the sessions.”