Breaking down Dyslexia: what is it, how do we know, and how can we as educators help?

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to inform and bring awareness to educators regarding the definition, evidence-based information, and misconceptions of Dyslexia. The aim is to support schools in identifying and providing appropriate and effective interventions to their struggling students without requiring expensive assessments and a formal diagnosis of Dyslexia. Educators will learn which skills research suggests they should be screening for in order to begin interventions immediately. For many students these interventions will be exactly what they need to support their reading. Educators will then be introduced to the latest research on Dyslexia. This research suggests ways we can supplement support for our struggling students who do not respond to typical interventions recommended by researchers.