DYSLEXIA
Dyslexia is a Greek word that means, "difficulty with words". A simplified definition of dyslexia is, difficulty reading, writing, and spelling in one's native language, despite average to above average intelligence. Some people with dyslexia may also experience some difficulty in arithmetic, however, It is important to realize that no two people with dyslexia are exactly alike. Symptoms of dyslexia will manifest differently in each individual.
Strengths:
*oral skills
*comprehension (when read to)
*creative
*curious/inquisitive
*thinking outside-the-box
*offer different perspectives
*artistic abilities
Challenges:
*time management
*remembering – especially material covered over several days
*reading (speed and fluency, letter and word recognition, understanding words and ideas)
*writing (organizing ideas, spelling*)
*organization of materials
*abstract thinking/concepts
*open-ended questions
*It is important to remember that although people with dyslexia commonly have difficulties spelling, poor spelling IS NOT an indication of low intelligence.
Tips for in the Classroom
Routine is important.
Break instructions down into small, easily remembered tasks.
If possible, photocopied notes or handouts, and/or the use of electronic devices to record or type information instead of handwritten notes are helpful for students with dyslexia.
Provide visual and/or audio cues like advance organizers on the board, sticky note lists with personalized instructions on their desk, and help them use their agendas effectively (or online agendas).
Students with dyslexia need to see the big picture; the more concrete examples, the better.
Provide students with an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge in a variety of forms.
Encourage students to make informal arrangements with other students to share information to create a supportive learning community and facilitate help with homework and assignments (ex. share phone numbers, emails, etc.).
Students with dyslexia can benefit from sitting somewhere in the classroom where there are minimal distractions.
Partner a student with dyslexia with someone else in the class who can help them so that they don't have to wait for you all the time. This should alleviate the "What do I do now?" problem and disruptions due to waiting. This is also where instructions written down on a sticky note would come in handy.
Strengths:
*oral skills
*comprehension (when read to)
*creative
*curious/inquisitive
*thinking outside-the-box
*offer different perspectives
*artistic abilities
Challenges:
*time management
*remembering – especially material covered over several days
*reading (speed and fluency, letter and word recognition, understanding words and ideas)
*writing (organizing ideas, spelling*)
*organization of materials
*abstract thinking/concepts
*open-ended questions
*It is important to remember that although people with dyslexia commonly have difficulties spelling, poor spelling IS NOT an indication of low intelligence.
Tips for in the Classroom
Routine is important.
Break instructions down into small, easily remembered tasks.
If possible, photocopied notes or handouts, and/or the use of electronic devices to record or type information instead of handwritten notes are helpful for students with dyslexia.
Provide visual and/or audio cues like advance organizers on the board, sticky note lists with personalized instructions on their desk, and help them use their agendas effectively (or online agendas).
Students with dyslexia need to see the big picture; the more concrete examples, the better.
Provide students with an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge in a variety of forms.
Encourage students to make informal arrangements with other students to share information to create a supportive learning community and facilitate help with homework and assignments (ex. share phone numbers, emails, etc.).
Students with dyslexia can benefit from sitting somewhere in the classroom where there are minimal distractions.
Partner a student with dyslexia with someone else in the class who can help them so that they don't have to wait for you all the time. This should alleviate the "What do I do now?" problem and disruptions due to waiting. This is also where instructions written down on a sticky note would come in handy.