What is Dyslexia in the classroom?

The International Dyslexia Association defines dyslexia as, “a specific learning disability 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.

It is common in parents to think that dyslexia is solely a visual difficulty that hinders reading ability, but usually dyslexia occurs in students with normal vision and intelligence. There is no current cure for dyslexia and so the need for a specialized curriculum is immediately apparent.

How do I know if my student has dyslexia?

Many times dyslexia can remain undiagnosed for years, and so awareness of potential symptoms and how the student is affected is crucial to avoid the development of a skill deficit.

Often times, teachers are the first to notice symptoms especially as the student is learning to read. Common symptoms include:

• Reading well below the expected level for the current age

• Difficulty understanding what was just read or heard

• Difficulty remembering sequences and rapid instructions

• Problems seeing relationships between letters and words

Marburn Academy offers free early reading screenings for 5–7-year-old children whose parents want to know if their child is likely to encounter difficulty in learning to read.

How is dyslexia diagnosed in my student?

Dyslexia can be difficult to diagnose without proper and professional screening, but initial complaints of feeling frustrated or showing disinterest in learning can indicate an underlying dyslexic perception.

Continued parental contact from teachers regarding these difficulties in progress and learning is also an early warning sign that dyslexia may be present. If you suspect your child is dyslexic or is having trouble reading, consider registering for a Free Early Reading Screening at Marburn Academy or contact your local school district or a local psychologist for an evaluation.

How does dyslexia affect my student in the classroom?

A general disconnect and lack of interest in school can quickly occur in the dyslexic student due to feelings of frustration, confusion and discouragement that come with trying to learn in a traditional classroom environment.

The increasing concern of the teacher along with potential social implications of troubles with learning and reading can also further affect the success of the student.

How does dyslexia in the classroom affect the long-term success of my student?

A dyslexic student will continue to fall behind and ultimately develop a skill deficit, which then must be remedied through a specialized language instruction program.

Marburn Academy is one of only 18 schools in the United States to have its language instruction program accredited by the Orton-Gillingham Academy.

What is the Orton-Gillingham Approach and how does it help dyslexic students to function in the classroom?

The Orton-Gillingham Approach is a scientifically validated instructional process that builds upon the sound/symbol system of language to effectively allow the dyslexic student to read and process information.

Once the student discovers they can read, learn, and understand again, academic progress resumes and self-confidence returns as their skill deficit begins to remedy. It is at this point that positive emotional changes are seen in the student regarding their learning.

How does Marburn Academy help these improvements to happen in my student?

The Marburn Difference utilizes a positive, safe learning environment for dyslexic students with all Marburn Academy Lower and Middle Division teachers being extensively trained in Orton-Gillingham instruction.

How can I get more information on how attending Marburn may be able to help my student?

The first step to learning how Marburn Academy can help is through our Admission Inquiry. Or connect with us by submitting the form below.