Understanding Dyslexia
What is Dyslexia?
Dyslexia is a neurologically based learning difference that affects how the brain processes written language. It is NOT an intellectual disability, the result of lack of effort, or a motivation problem. Dyslexia occurs across the full range of intellectual abilities. In fact, in order to qualify as dyslexic, a person must have average or above-average intelligence.
Common dyslexia-related challenges may include:
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Accurate or fluent word reading
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Spelling and decoding
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Reading comprehension
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Learning new vocabulary
How is Dyslexia defined?
According to the Texas Education Code (TEC) and Texas Education Agency (TEA) §38.003:
Dyslexia is a disorder of constitutional origin manifested by a difficulty in learning to read, write, or spell, despite conventional instruction, adequate intelligence, and socio-cultural opportunity. Related disorders include disorders similar to or related to dyslexia such as developmental auditory imperceptions, dysphasia, specific developmental dyslexia, developmental dysgraphia, and developmental spelling disability.
Why is identification important?
Identifying dyslexia helps students understand how they learn and prevents frustration from being mistaken for lack of ability. Early identification allows schools and families to provide targeted instruction, appropriate accommodations, and meaningful support. With the right strategies in place, students can build confidence, improve academic outcomes, and develop strong lifelong learning skills.
Famous Dyslexics
What do Thomas Edison, Steve Jobs, Walt Disney, Cher, Keanu Reeves, General George Patton, and Simone Biles all have in common? Dyslexia! Dyslexia appears across every profession, culture, and generation.
Some people say that dyslexia is a hidden gift, “wiring” individuals to be more visual, more creative, and better at certain higher-order thinking skills. Dyslexia does not define limits—it highlights differences in how people process information and solve problems.
Multi-Sensory Instruction
Dyslexics can learn to be better readers, writers, and spellers, but instead of trying to force them to learn the way we teach, we need to teach the way that they learn. One of the most effective ways is to use multi-sensory instruction, often referred to as VAKT (visual-auditory-kinesthetic-tactile) instruction.
A true dyslexia intervention program will use multi-sensory instruction, using colors, gestures, physical activities, rhymes, and manipulative items to create multiple input for the brain to remember and understand. One of the most common methods is called the Orton Gillingham method, and many programs of different names use this instruction.
If your child receives tutoring assistance at DASA, our trained interventionists will use this multi-sensory approach and tailor it to the child’s age and ability. We can also help homeschooling parents learn how best to teach using these methodologies.
helpful resources
Please note that the organizations and items listed below are for informational purposes only. Inclusion does not imply endorsement. This information is here as a courtesy to help guide your independent research for free or low-cost assistance. Educational needs vary; a comprehensive assessment can help determine which supports would be most relevant and effective.
DARS
For adults age 18+ with dyslexia or learning disabilities, DARS (Department of Assistive Rehabilitative Services) can assist with job training and job placement. Take your recent assessment data to them and ask for help with assistive technology recommended in your report, costs of textbooks or tools and equipment for your job field, or training and job placement. Ask us about navigating successfully with DARS before you go.
Learning Ally
For adults and children, Learning Ally is a non-profit providing more than 20,000 textbooks and pleasure reading books for download to a smartphone, tablet, or computer. You will need your assessment report or diagnostician’s recommendation to qualify. Costs can be as low as $11 per month, paid yearly, and anything from Dr. Seuss to Shakespeare, first-grade readers to advanced college textbooks, are available.
C-PEN SCANNER
This chunky-looking pen reads words and phrases into your earbuds. The higher-end ones can also give definitions or translate into a different language. Use it for spot checks or pre-reading of words and phrases, not for whole paragraphs or pages.
Texas Talking Book Program
A free state library service offering audiobooks and accessible reading materials for qualified individuals. Assistive tools such as text-to-speech, dictation software, and scanning readers may also support access to reading and writing tasks when used appropriately.
Texas Education Agency Dyslexia Handbook
Outlines laws, guidelines, and research-based recommendations for identifying and serving students with dyslexia in Texas schools.
Each One Teach One
This organization has volunteers to help you in studies as an adult or young adult.
Misc. Early Literacy & Phonics Tools Online
Starfall, Bogglesworld, Laternfish ESL have historically offered free or low-cost resources for young learners.
STAAR Practice Materials
Previously released STAAR test questions are publicly available.
And More!
After your assessment, we will also debrief you on other helpful devices and sites for your specific needs.
