Dyslexia is a specific learning disability that affects an individual's ability to accurately and fluently read, write, and spell, even for those with average or above-average intelligence and adequate educational opportunities. It is characterised by difficulties with phonological processing, which can manifest as challenges in decoding words, recognising sight words, and understanding the relationship between letters and sounds.

 

Dyslexia is not related to intelligence or vision problems but is instead associated with differences in brain function and structure that affect the processing of written language.

 

To support students with dyslexia, evidence-based practices include:

 

Phonological Awareness and Phonics-Based Interventions

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• Teach phonological awareness and phonics explicitly, focusing on sound-letter correspondence and blending sounds.

• Use multisensory approaches like simultaneous oral spelling and tracing letters in sand or other textured materials.

 

Multisensory Structured Language Interventions

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• Implement structured, systematic approaches that engage multiple senses, such as visual, auditory, and tactile and movement modalities.

• Incorporate techniques like explicit instruction in phonology, phonics, vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension.

 

Reading Comprehension Strategies

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• Teach specific techniques for comprehending and interpreting written material, such as activating prior knowledge, making predictions, summarizing, asking questions, and monitoring understanding.

 

Assistive Technology and Accommodations

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• Utilize text-to-speech software, speech-to-text tools, and other assistive technologies to enhance reading, writing, and organizational skills.

• Provide accommodations like extended time, preferential seating, and access to note-taking supports to ensure equal access to educational materials and opportunities.

 

Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)

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• Develop personalized plans that outline specific academic goals, accommodations, and services tailored to meet the individual's learning needs.

 

Structured Literacy Programs

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• Use evidence-based, multi-sensory methods , and structured literacy programs to teach reading, spelling, and writing skills explicitly.

 

Classroom Accommodations and Modifications

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• Provide inclusive classroom accommodations and modifications, such as providing preferential seating, offering additional time for tasks, and reducing the amount of written work required.

 

Explicit and Systematic Instruction

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• Teach skills and concepts explicitly, using step-by-step instruction and modeLling problem-solving strategies.

 

Self-Regulation 

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• Teach self-regulation techniques, such as deep-breathing exercises and mindfulness, to help manage stress and anxiety during reading and writing tasks.

• Set clear and achievable goals, breaking down larger tasks into smaller steps to provide a sense of accomplishment and boost motivation.

 

Organisational Strategies

 

• Teach effective study habits and organisational skills, such as creating mind maps or graphic organizers, using color-coding systems, and employing mnemonic devices.

• Explicitly teach and make accommodations around executive functioning

 

By incorporating these evidence-based practices, educators can provide comprehensive support to students with dyslexia, helping them overcome challenges and achieve academic success.