Understanding dyslexia and reading/spelling difficulties

In short: Dyslexia, also called reading and spelling disorder, refers to persistent difficulties with reading or writing despite normal intelligence and adequate teaching. It is not the result of laziness or lack of practice.

In more detail: The exact causes are not yet fully researched, but a genetic component is assumed.

In detail

• Recognition: Specialist medical or psychological diagnostics distinguish it from temporary learning difficulties.
• Symptoms: Swapping letters, slow reading pace, spelling difficulties despite practice.
• Compensation for disadvantage: Those affected can receive extra time or other adjustments at school (notenschutz-und-nachteilsausgleich).
• Support: Special practice programmes and individual support help with managing the disorder.
• No link to intelligence: Dyslexia says nothing about general cognitive ability.
• Technical aids: Text-to-speech software and special fonts can ease everyday life.
• Long term: Many affected people develop successful strategies and manage training and working life well.