DYSLEXIA

Dyslexia is a language-based learning difference that primarily affects reading, spelling, and writing skills. It is not related to intelligence or effort, and students with dyslexia can succeed with targeted support and accommodations. Early identification and intervention are key to helping students thrive. Dyslexia is typically diagnosed after ages 7-8; however, effective intervention can and should begin earlier if red flags are present, as these strategies benefit all students. 

Good teaching for students with dyslexia is good teaching for everyone. Building a solid phonemic foundation hurts and limits no one.

For older students who either did not receive supports early on or who received supports but still struggle with reading, it is important to remember their reading level is not equivalent to their intelligence. Just because a student has difficulty reading Shakespeare doesn't mean he/she doesn't have advanced insight into the content and meaning of his works. Making the literature accessible to a student with dyslexia enables him/her to demonstrate their own understanding of the content and shine in a way they may have previously struggled to do due to the amount of energy and work required to accurately read the text.

When considering how to best support a student with dyslexia, consider the following:

What level of individualized support will this child need?  

- Collaborate with parents, teachers, and specialists to develop an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan.  

- Include accommodations such as extra time for reading and writing tasks, access to audiobooks, or reduced text-heavy assignments.  

- Use data from assessments and observations to tailor intervention strategies, even before a formal diagnosis.

Are there early signs or "red flags" to address?  

While diagnosis typically occurs after age 7-8, students may exhibit signs as early as preschool or kindergarten:  

- Difficulty recognizing letters or learning letter-sound associations.  

- Trouble rhyming or segmenting sounds in words.  

- Avoidance of reading activities.  

Early intervention is crucial and should include structured literacy programs that explicitly teach phonemic awareness, decoding, and fluency skills.

What specific challenges does the student face with literacy?  

Phonemic Awareness and Decoding:  

- Students may struggle to break words into sounds, blend sounds into words, or decode unfamiliar words.  

- Use phonics-based, structured literacy programs like Barton Reading & Spelling System, Heggerty Phonemic Awareness, or Sonday System to build foundational skills.  

Reading Fluency: 

- Slow, labored reading that impacts comprehension.  

- Provide opportunities for repeated reading practice and support with fluency-building tools such as paired reading or guided oral reading.  

Spelling and Writing:  

- Challenges with spelling rules, organization, and written expression.  

- Offer word banks, graphic organizers, and structured writing supports to help with written tasks.  

How can classroom instruction be adapted?  

- Explicit, Systematic Instruction: Use structured literacy approaches that focus on phonics, spelling patterns, and reading comprehension.  

- Multi-Sensory Techniques: Incorporate visual, auditory, and kinesthetic activities to engage multiple senses. For example, use sandpaper letters or tapping out sounds.  

- Assistive Technology: Provide tools like text-to-speech software, audiobooks, e-reader pens, and word prediction apps to support reading and writing.

How will assessments be adjusted for this student?  

- Use assessments that measure progress in phonemic awareness, decoding, and fluency rather than relying solely on grade-level benchmarks.  

- Allow alternative formats for demonstrating understanding, such as oral presentations or multiple-choice assessments.  

What accommodations and tools will help in the classroom?  

- Reading Tools: Provide access to audiobooks through resources like Learning Ally or Bookshare.  

- Writing Tools: Allow the use of keyboards, word processors, and dictation software for writing assignments.  

- Classroom Materials: Offer highlighted texts, larger font sizes, or simplified instructions for assignments. 

Are parents and teachers prepared for frequent and open communication?  

- Work with parents to identify effective strategies used at home and share progress regularly.  

- Provide guidance on additional supports, such as tutoring or online programs, to reinforce learning outside the classroom.  

How can faith and values support the student?  

- Emphasize patience, perseverance, and the inherent dignity of every child. Encourage the student to see their unique challenges as opportunities to grow.  

- Offer support and understanding during religious activities, ensuring reading-based tasks are adapted as needed.  

Are staff equipped with training on dyslexia?  

- Provide professional development on structured literacy programs and strategies for supporting struggling readers.  

- Train teachers to recognize early signs of dyslexia and implement interventions proactively, even before formal diagnosis.  

Title I and Title II funds are a great way to secure the following programs for your students and teachers:

1. Barton Reading & Spelling System - A multi-sensory, Orton-Gillingham-based program designed for students with dyslexia.  https://bartonreading.com

2. Heggerty Phonemic Awareness Program - Focuses on explicit instruction in phonemic awareness for early learners.  https://heggerty.org

3. Sonday System - A structured literacy program for early intervention and remediation.     https://www.winsorlearning.com/sonday-system

4. Wilson Reading System - A comprehensive program based on Orton-Gillingham principles. https://www.wilsonlanguage.com

5. Lindamood-Bell Learning Processes - Provides programs focusing on sensory-cognitive instruction for reading and comprehension. https://www.lindamoodbell.com

Instructional Accommodations:

• Print tests and worksheets on colored paper.
• Use colored overlays or line highlighter tools to assist with reading.
• Provide access to Reader Pens and digital reading tools (e.g., C-Pen Reader).
• Allow oral responses for essay questions.
• Offer dictation software and voice-to-text tools (e.g., Google Docs Dictation, Dragon NaturallySpeaking).
• Incorporate Google Reader add-ons or Chrome extensions (e.g., Read&Write).
• Provide reduced spelling lists and oral spelling assessments.
• Use visualization with videos, pictures, and graphic organizers during lessons.
• Allow substitution of sign language or alternate communication for foreign language requirements.
• Use structured literacy programs (e.g., Barton Reading & Spelling System, Sonday System).

Assessment Accommodations:

• STAR Reading and Math accommodations, such as text-to-speech and large font options.
• Allow read-aloud testing for all subjects when needed.
• Provide highlighter tools on digital platforms.
• Increase font size and spacing on assessments.
• Allow extra time and provide quiet or separate testing spaces.

Materials with Links:

• Learning Ally Audiobooks
• Bookshare Digital Library
• Kurzweil 3000 (text-to-speech and literacy support software)
• Co:Writer (predictive writing tool)

1. International Dyslexia Association (IDA) - Offers webinars and training on dyslexia, including structured literacy approaches. https://dyslexiaida.org 

2. Understood.org - Free training for educators and parents on recognizing and addressing dyslexia.  https://www.understood.org

3. Reading Rockets - Provides free resources and webinars on teaching reading to students with dyslexia. https://www.readingrockets.org

4. Coursera "Overcoming Dyslexia" Yale University - Free course on dyslexia research, interventions, practical skills, and the latest federal stautes affecting IDEA, ASAAA, and 504. https://coursera.org/learn/dyslexia

1. "Overcoming Dyslexia" by Sally Shaywitz  - Comprehensive guide on dyslexia, including early signs, diagnosis, and interventions. 

2. "The Dyslexia Empowerment Plan" by Ben Foss - A parent-friendly guide to advocating for children with dyslexia. 

3. "Essentials of Assessing, Preventing, and Overcoming Reading Difficulties" by David Kilpatrick - Provides insights into reading science and practical strategies for intervention. 

4. "Multisensory Teaching of Basic Language Skills" by Judith R. Birsh  - A detailed guide to using multisensory strategies for teaching students with dyslexia. 

5. "Reading Instruction That Works" by Michael Pressley  - Focuses on evidence-based strategies for teaching reading effectively.