What is Dyslexia

"Dyslexia" literally means 'difficulty with words'.  Derives from the Greek "dys" = difficulty and "lexis" = word.

Sometimes known as 'specific learning difficulty', dyslexia is a problem in acquisition of reading, spelling and writing.  Frequently mathematics and aspects of spoken language are affected.

The underlying difficulties give rise to problems in learning alphabetical names, remembering spelling patterns, reading phonetically, giving letters and words verbal meaning, sequencing, and directional confusions. In other words, these difficulties give rise to dyslexia.

The definition of Dyslexia has been developed by the Scottish Government, the Cross-Party Group on Dyslexia, and Dyslexia Scotland.

Visual Stress, Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome, Meares-Irlen, Irlen Syndrome are difficulties that some children and adults with dyslexia may experience. Using coloured paper, coloured rulers, and special lenses can help alleviate the difficulties experienced.

Strengths associated with Dyslexia:

  • Can be very creative and enjoy practical tasks.
  • Strong visual thinking skills e.g. see/think in 3-d, visualise a structure from plans.
  • Good verbal skills and good social interaction.
  • Good at problem solving, thinking outside the box, seeing the whole picture.

Weaknesses associated with Dyslexia:

  • Problems with reading, taking notes, remembering numbers, names and details.
  • Difficulty with time keeping, managing time, organising work etc.
  • Problems with written work; e.g. spelling and writing.
  • Short-term memory problems, sequencing difficulties e.g. following/giving instructions, directions.

What can you expect to experience?

  • Distortion when viewing a page of print
  • Letters may appear to 'move around' or 'jump about'
  • Words and letters may blur
  • Patterns or colours in writing
  • There may be glare when reading
  • Headaches/migraines
  • Tiredness when reading
  • Sore eyes/eyestrain

Indications of Dyslexia in Adults