Dyslexia

__Dyslexia__

Dyslexia is a disability that effects an individuals reading and writing. It is not a visible disability and therefore as stated by Foreman (2008) is likely not to be diagnosed or recognized until they are in 3rd grade. Research conducted by Dyslexia Australia also states that "...74% of the children who are poor readers in 3rd grade remain poor readers in the 9th grade." In a country where 16% of the population has dyslexia, it is vital that diagnosis is made early. To do this, teachers must be aware of the disability and it's effects, in order to reduce the impact that it has on the students progress at school.

[|The Australian Dyslexia Association] provides support to people who have dyslexia or are looking for more information about what dyslexia is. Specifically, the following information can be found on from the association:
 * Assess whether someone has Dyslexia
 * Instructions for how to combat Dyslexia
 * Early interventions
 * Workshops
 * Media releases
 * Relevant associations
 * Information for teens and adults
 * Dyscalculia
 * Camps that are available
 * Training courses
 * What Dyslexia is and how it effects reading and writing

Teachers who have uncertainties about a students development and reading abilities can use the website as a resource when approaching the parents of these students. It can provide assurance to parents that want to learn more or who are unsure of what the disability entails. Similarly, a teacher who needs to seek further support can approach the association with queries to better their understanding of how to assist the student in their school.
 * How would this be useful for a teacher?**

Australian Dyslexia Association, (2007). //Solutions for those that Learn Differently//. [Accessed on 23 June 2011]. Retrieved from [] Dyslexia Australia, Frequently asked questions. [Accessed on 7 July 2011]. Retrieved from http://www.dyslexiaaustralia.com.au/faqs-mainmenu-84 Foreman, P., (2008) Inclusion in Action. (2nd Edition). Cengage learning. p.249.
 * References:**

The site below also offers strategies to help students with Dyslexia in the classroom by changing a few small things so that they can recognise, understand and interpret normal classroom activities. Covering the topics of:
 * Reading
 * Spelling
 * Maths
 * Handwriting
 * Homework and
 * Classroom Integration

A Dyslexic child in the classroom, (2000). //**A Guide for Teachers and Parents**//. [Accessed on 7 July 2011]. retrieved from []


 * Dyslexia.**

Dyslexia is a difficult learning disorder to diagnose and can vary in it's severity. There is no actual cure for dyslexia; however, the earlier it is detected the better prepared the child is to deal with difficulties they may face.

When a child reaches school age and starts learning to read and write seems to be when dyslexia is most commonly detected. Children with dyslexia consistently make reading and spelling errors such as: __Dyslexia in the classroom.__ Teachers are learning different ways to deliver the curriculum to children and this is proving helpful to children with different types of educational learning needs. Children who are diagnosed with dyslexia may need a more direct approach to teaching such as techniques designed to help all the senses work together efficiently or a reading approach that allows the child to hear, see, say and do.
 * letter reversals - d and b, p and q
 * word reversals - tip for pit, pot and top
 * inversions - m and w, u and n
 * transpositions - felt for left

'Touch-type, read and spell' is a multi-sensory computer course designed for children with learning difficulties such as dyslexia. It teaches children and adults to touch-type, read, spell and use phonics as they progress through the stages at their own pace.

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The link below is an Australian based service where teachers and parents alike can purchase books and teaching aids to assist them with a child who is dyslexic. This link also provides services to test a child who you believe may be dyslexic, a printable checklist on the signs and symptoms for dyslexia and workshop and training courses for teachers to develop their understanding of the learning disability.

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 * Multisensory Teaching Method **

Using a multisensory teaching model means providing your students with the opportunity to learn through more than one of their senses. This means that the student is able to learn in a variety of ways, not just by reading or listening.
 * Example:**

An example of using a multisensory teaching method is having students make letters out of play dough. This is beneficial for students with dyslexia as it gives them a tactile memory of the letter, rather than just having a visual memory from reading it on paper.


 * VAK Modalities **

Multisensory methods are also known as VAK Modalities:

The three modalities of learning styles have been summarized by the acronym **VAK**, for:**V**isual, **A**uditory, and **K**inesthetic: 1. **Visual**: That which you see. 2. **Auditory**: That which you hear. 3. **Kinesthetic**: The tactile ... where the child touches and handles objects.

(Bradford, n.d.) It is recommended that when teaching students with dyslexia, that you engage the three modalities of learning styles, as listed above. This will help them to learn without having to rely on only being able to read. Using a multisensory teaching method is very important in an inclusive classroom. Not only will it benefit students with dyslexia, but it will be helpful for students with other learning support needs, as well as the rest of the class. As all students learn differently, this strategy will be of use in an inclusive classroom, to ensure every student can be involved and learn a lot from their education experience.

References:

Bradford, J. (n.d.). //Using Multisensory Teaching Methods.// Retrieved on 25 July 2011 from [].

Child First Publications, (2010). //Why Use Multisensory teaching Methods?// Retrieved on 25 July 2011 from [].