Understanding dyslexia
The International Dyslexia Association provides this formal definition of Dyslexia:
“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 experience that can impede growth of vocabulary and background knowledge.”
[Adopted by the International Dyslexia Association Board of Directors, Nov. 12, 2002. This Definition is also used by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development]
1 International Dyslexia Association (2002). "Definition of dyslexia." Retrieved from dyslexiaida.org.
2 Johnson, E. S., Jenkins, J. R., & Petscher, Y. Improving the accuracy of a direct route screening process. Assessment for Effective Intervention (2010), 35, 131–140.
3 Johnson, E. S., Jenkins, J. R., Petscher, Y., & Catts, H. W. How can we improve the accuracy of screening instruments? Learning Disabilities Research & Practice (2009), 24, 174–185.