What is Dyslexia?

Dyslexia is the most common learning difference and affects up to 20% of people. The International Dyslexia Association defines dyslexia as “a specific learning disability that is neurological 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 experience that can impede the growth of vocabulary and background knowledge.”

Dyslexia affects about 15 to 20 percent of the population, making it the most common learning disability. Although dyslexia impacts many students, it remains one of the least understood disabilities. The resources below guide families in understanding what dyslexia is and is not.

Dyslexia Fact Sheet– This resource provides a brief, yet succinct overview of what dyslexia is and looks like, and addresses some of the overlying misconceptions.

What is Dyslexia – Dyslexia is a learning disability in reading. People with dyslexia have trouble reading at a good pace and without mistakes. They may also have a hard time with reading comprehension, spelling, and writing. But these challenges aren’t a problem with intelligence.

Dyslexia Resources– The Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) provides resources regarding dyslexia and related disorders to help educators and families work together to better support students who struggle with reading, as well as writing, and math.

TED-Ed – What is Dyslexia (4:35) – Dyslexia affects up to 1 in 5 people, but the experience of dyslexia isn’t always the same. This difficulty in processing language exists along a spectrum – one that doesn’t necessarily fit with labels like “normal” and “defective.” Kelli Sandman-Hurley urges us to think again about dyslexic brain function and to celebrate the neurodiversity of the human brain. This short, animated video explores this concept.

Understanding Dyslexia – NCIL The National Center on Improving Literacy is a source for improving outcomes for students with literacy-related disabilities, including dyslexia. They provide multiple resources on Dyslexia for Parents & Families, Schools & Districts, and State Agencies.