Definition+of+Dyslexia

=What is Dyslexia?=

//**Dyslexia is an impairment in the ability to read despite adequate intelligence and proper teaching.**// Source: Australian Council for Education Research []

Source: Healthinsite [] = =
 * // Dyslexia is an impairment in the brain's ability to translate written images received from the eyes into meaningful language. Also called specific reading disability, dyslexia is the most common learning disability in children. //**

Dyslexia is a specific [|learning disability] that is neurological in origin. It is characterised 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 the growth of vocabulary and background knowledge.

Dyslexia is a life-long condition. With proper help, many people with dyslexia can learn to read and write well. **Early identification** and treatment is the key to helping dyslexics achieve in school and in life. Most people with dyslexia need help from a teacher, tutor, or therapist specially trained in using a [|multisensory], structured language approach. It is important for these individuals to be taught by a systematic and explicit method that involves several senses (hearing, seeing, touching) at the same time. Many individuals with dyslexia need one-on-one help so that they can move forward at their own pace. In addition, students with dyslexia often need a great deal of structured practice and immediate, corrective feedback to develop automatic word recognition skills. When students with dyslexia receive academic therapy outside of school, the therapist should work closely with classroom teachers, special education providers, and other school personnel.

Schools can implement academic accommodations and modifications to help dyslexic students succeed. For example, a student with dyslexia can be given extra time to complete tasks, help with taking notes, and work assignments that are modified appropriately. Teachers can give taped tests or allow dyslexic students to use alternative means of assessment. Students can benefit from listening to books on tape and using the computer for text reading programs and for writing. Students may also need help with **emotional issues** that sometimes arise as a consequence of difficulties in school. Mental health specialists can help students cope with their struggles.

Source: The International Dyslexia Association (IDA) [|http://www.interdys.org]

**A range of theories** The exact causes of dyslexia remain unknown, but theories include: Source: []
 * Problems with phonological awareness (distinguishing the meaning of contrasting speech sounds).
 * A person with poor phonological awareness has trouble with their short-term memory for spoken words, which means they tend to forget instructions or word lists.
 * Problems with the visual, auditory, linguistic or neurological processes that are involved with recognising the written word.
 * Reading difficulties tend to run in families, which suggests a genetic link.

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