Dyslexia

What is dyslexia?

In July, 2020, the following definition of dyslexia was included in Iowa Code.

"Dyslexia is a specific learning disability that is neurobiological in origin. It is characterized 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 experiences that can impede growth of vocabulary and background knowledge."

Dyslexia occurs on a continuum. Not all students exhibit the same characteristics or signs.

Understanding Dyslexia: Myth vs. Facts

The National Center for Improving Literacy provides more information about dyslexia.

They also provide this Myths vs. Facts document to break down the truth about dyslexia.

Possible Indicators

The following are possible indicators of dyslexia. Individuals with dyslexia will have more than one indicator, but may not have all of them. The presence of some of these indicators does not necessarily mean that an individual has dyslexia. Keep in mind, this is not a complete list of indicators.

•           Difficulty rhyming words
•           Difficulty remembering letter names and sounds
•           Inability to sound out unknown words
•           Slow, choppy, laborious oral reading
•           Misreading or omitting common, short words
•           Inconsistent sight word recognition

Information for Educators

This slide presentation What is Dyslexia? An Overview for Educators provides general information about dyslexia. It includes:

•           Misconceptions 
•           Indicators (elementary, secondary, adult)
•           Classroom implications
•           Dyslexic strengths 
•           Accommodations
•           Additional resources

Resources 

These resources have been compiled to help educators as well as families learn more about dyslexia. Educators, check with your local AEA to see if these materials are available for loan.

Online Resources

• Decoding Dyslexia Iowa (parent advocacy group)
• Understood: Dyslexia Simulation
• International Dyslexia Association
• International Dyslexia Association - Fact Sheets
• Knowledge and Practice Standards for Teachers of Reading
• Dyslexia in the Classroom - What Every Teacher Needs to Know

Books

• The Dyslexic Advantage: Unlocking the Hidden Potential of the Dyslexic Brain by Eide & Eide
• Essentials of Dyslexia Assessment and Intervention by Mather & Wendling
• Overcoming Dyslexia: A New and Complete Science-based Program for Reading Problems at Any Level by Shaywitz
• School Success for Kids with Dyslexia and Other Reading Difficulties by W. E. Dunson
• Words: Integrated Decoding and Spelling Instruction Based on Word Origin and Word Structure by M. Henry

Other

• The Big Picture: Rethinking Dyslexia by Roco Films Educational
• Dyslexia for a Day Simulation Kit from Dyslexia Training Institute
• Embracing Dyslexia by Janson Media

Find Your AEA

Wondering which Area Education Agency serves your child's school? Refer to the map below.