Dyslexia: Causes, Symptoms and the Impact on Student Learning

Dyslexia is a specific learning disability involving language skills, mainly in the area of reading. Writing, speaking and spelling are also commonly affected by dyslexia. It is estimated that up to 20% of the general population is affected by language-based learning disabilities and the majority of students receiving special education services have a reading deficit, making dyslexia one of the most common learning disabilities.

Dyslexia affects males and females and people of different socioeconomic backgrounds in similar numbers. While there has been much research, the root of dyslexia is not certain. The overall consensus is that a combination of factors attribute to the condition including brain development, genetics, and difficulty with identifying and integrating speech sounds. People with dyslexia can learn with appropriate instructional methods and often display talents in subjects and areas outside of reading.

Despite popular beliefs, dyslexia does not mean simply writing letters backwards or in the wrong order and not all people with dyslexia reverse letters. There are many indicators of dyslexia and only formal testing can evaluate a student for a specific learning disability. However, there are signs that point towards dyslexia, and these symptoms usually persist over a period of time. Children with dyslexia have trouble learning letter and sound relationships, organizing written work, learning math facts, rhyming, auditory processing skills, sequencing events, and confusing small words. Oral language is also affected. Children with dyslexia often are delayed in learning to talk, have trouble following directions, use improper grammar for their age, and have problems identifying common things by name. For a more comprehensive picture of the signs of dyslexia, download this parent guide from the International Dyslexia Association.

Prior to intervention it is common for the student with an undiagnosed learning disability to exhibit off-task or disruptive behaviors in class out of frustration at the trouble he or she is having with the work. Not only does dyslexia have an impact on a student's school work, it can also have a negative effect on his or her behavior, social skills, and self-esteem.

There is hope for children who have dyslexia to learn to read and keep up with grade level work, but early intervention is critical. According to the International Dyslexia Association, children who receive intervention before the first grade will have fewer problems reading on grade level than students who do not receive intervention until the third grade. Further statistics indicate that 74% of struggling third graders are still having significant reading problems when they reach high school. So, with early detection, proper teaching methods, and collaboration between the parents, school, and student it is possible for a person with dyslexia to overcome the disability and be successful in school and life.

Source:
The International Dyslexia Association