The Greek definition of the word dyslexia means difficulty(dys) with words(lexia). This describes what many students experience while struggling to learn to read, spell and write. The latest working definition of dyslexia, approved by the Research committee of The International Dyslexia Association and the National Institutes of Health is as follows:

Dyslexia is a specific learning disabiltiy 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. (From The International Dyslexia Association Perspectives, Spring 2003).

The following checklist is a guidepost for parents and professionals. It should not be used in isolation, but may lead the parent or professional to seek further assessment. All children exhibit one or more of these behaviors from time to time throughout their childhood. A consistent showing of a group of these behaviors should be considered an indication to seek further advice, observation or assessment.

• Difficulty reading aloud
• Mispronouncing words
• Lack of phonemic awareness/phonological awareness
• Difficulty learning new vocabulary
• Problems understanding what is read
• Trouble with oral expression
• Difficulty remembering multiple oral instructions
• Inconsistent Spelling
• Difficulty putting thoughts in writing
• Reversing letters, transposing syllables, skipping words or lines of print
• Problems sequencing
• Misinterpreting nonverbal cues
• Disorganized thinking or behavior