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Frequently asked questions about dyslexia.
What is dyslexia? Dyslexia is a language-based learning disability. Students with dyslexia often experience difficulties with both oral and written other language skills, such as writing, and pronouncing words and writing. It is referred to as a learning disability because dyslexia can make it very difficult for a student to succeed without phonics-based reading instruction that is unavailable in schools. In its more severe forms, a student with dyslexia may qualify for special education with specially designed instruction, and as appropriate, accommodations.
What causes dyslexia? The exact causes of dyslexia are still not completely clear, but anatomical and brain imagery studies show differences in the way the brain of a person with dyslexia develops and functions.
What are the effects of dyslexia? Some individuals with dyslexia manage to learn early reading and spelling tasks, especially with excellent instruction, but later experience their most challenging problems when more complex language skills are required, such as grammar, understanding textbook material, and writing essays. People with dyslexia can also have problems with spoken language, even after they have been exposed to good language models in their homes and good language instruction in school. Such language problems are often difficult to recognize, but they can lead to major problems in school, in the workplace, and in relating to other people.
Can individuals who have dyslexia learn to read? If children who have dyslexia receive effective phonological awareness and phonics training in Kindergarten and 1st grade, they will have significantly fewer problems in learning to read at grade level than do children who are not identified or helped until 3rd grade. 74% of the children who are poor readers in 3rd grade remain poor readers in the 9th grade, many because they do not receive appropriate Structured Literacy instruction with the needed intensity or duration. It is never too late for individuals with dyslexia to learn to read, process, and express information more efficiently. Research shows that programs utilizing Structured Literacy instructional techniques can help children and adults learn to read.
Effective Reading Instruction
Parents who have children diagnosed with dyslexia should seek out reading instruction that is based upon a systematic and explicit understanding of language structure, including phonics. This reading instruction goes by many names, Structured Literacy, Orton- Gillingham, Simultaneous Multisensory, Explicit Phonics, and others.
(See IDA’s fact sheet Effective Reading Instruction).
Creating a supportive and accessible learning space
Famous Individuals with Dyslexia: Overcoming Challenges to Achieve Greatness
Dyslexia is often misunderstood as simply a learning challenge, but many individuals with dyslexia have shown the world that it can be a springboard for remarkable success. Throughout history and in modern times, dyslexia has shaped the lives of many innovative thinkers, creators, and leaders. Here are six extraordinary individuals who didn’t let dyslexia hold them back, but rather embraced it as part of their journey to greatness.
1. Keira Knightley
Keira Knightley, the acclaimed actress known for roles in Pirates of the Caribbean and Pride & Prejudice, has been open about her struggles with dyslexia. Diagnosed at six, she initially found reading daunting but used her passion for acting to motivate her learning.
Impact of Dyslexia: Knightley’s dyslexia fostered her determination and creativity, helping her develop the resilience needed for a successful acting career.
2. Richard Branson
The founder of Virgin Group, Richard Branson, is a highly successful entrepreneur who has openly discussed his dyslexia. Branson struggled in school but leveraged his strengths in creativity and big-picture thinking to build a business empire.
Impact of Dyslexia: Branson credits dyslexia with helping him simplify ideas, which has been key to his success in making businesses accessible and user-friendly.
3. Whoopi Goldberg
Whoopi Goldberg, an award-winning actress and television host, has spoken about her experiences with dyslexia. Despite early challenges and being underestimated, Goldberg’s talent and determination led her to achieve EGOT status.
Impact of Dyslexia: Goldberg’s experiences with dyslexia taught her resilience and perseverance, which have fueled her multifaceted entertainment career.
4. Jamie Oliver
Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver, known for his cooking shows and campaigns for healthier school lunches, has been candid about his dyslexia. Reading and writing were challenging, but his hands-on approach to cooking helped him overcome these obstacles.
Impact of Dyslexia: Oliver’s dyslexia enhanced his ability to communicate visually and practically, making him a more effective teacher and advocate.
5. Agatha Christie
Agatha Christie, the best-selling novelist of all time, struggled with spelling and grammar, leading some to speculate that she had dyslexia. Despite this, she crafted timeless mystery novels like Murder on the Orient Express.
Impact of Dyslexia: Christie’s challenges with traditional writing didn’t hinder her creativity or storytelling abilities, which remain unparalleled.
6. Orlando Bloom
Actor Orlando Bloom, famous for his roles in The Lord of the Rings and Pirates of the Caribbean, has shared his experiences with dyslexia. Diagnosed as a child, he found school difficult but focused on his strengths in the arts.
Impact of Dyslexia: Bloom’s dyslexia helped him develop a strong work ethic and resilience, both essential for his acting success.
Conclusion
These individuals demonstrate that dyslexia is not a barrier to success but rather a unique way of viewing the world that can lead to extraordinary achievements. Their stories inspire and remind us that the strengths associated with dyslexia—creativity, problem-solving, and resilience—can unlock incredible potential.
If you or a loved one has dyslexia, remember that challenges can become stepping stones to greatness. With the right support and mindset, anything is possible. At Scholar Stride, we’re here to help individuals with dyslexia harness their strengths and achieve their dreams. Contact us to learn more about how we can support your literacy journey.