📚 Dyslexia
Reading & Language Processing Differences
What is Dyslexia?
Dyslexia is a specific learning difference that primarily affects reading, spelling, and language processing. It's characterized by difficulties with phonological processing - the ability to identify and manipulate the sounds in language. Despite these challenges, people with dyslexia often have average or above-average intelligence and many unique strengths.
Common Characteristics
Reading Challenges
• Difficulty decoding words
• Slow or inaccurate reading
• Problems with reading fluency
• Difficulty with reading comprehension
Language Processing
• Phonological awareness difficulties
• Spelling challenges
• Word retrieval difficulties
• Problems with rapid naming
Strengths & Abilities
• Strong visual-spatial reasoning abilities
• Creative and innovative thinking
• Excellent problem-solving skills
• Strong oral communication abilities
• Ability to see the "big picture"
• Strong empathy and interpersonal skills
Brain Regions Involved
Language Areas
• Left Hemisphere: Language processing centers
• Broca's Area: Speech production and phonological processing
• Wernicke's Area: Language comprehension
• Angular Gyrus: Reading and word recognition
Reading Networks
• Phonological System: Sound-letter connections
• Orthographic System: Visual word recognition
• Semantic System: Word meaning processing
Support Strategies
• Use multisensory reading approaches
• Provide audiobooks and text-to-speech technology
• Allow extra time for reading and writing tasks
• Use graphic organizers and visual aids
• Focus on strengths in oral communication
• Provide explicit phonics instruction