What is Dyslexia?

The The International Dyslexia Association defines “dyslexia” as:

"Dyslexia is 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."

                         Adopted by the International Dyslexia Association Board of Directors,
                                                                                                                  November 12, 2002

TEC §38.003 defines dyslexia and related disorders as:

"“Dyslexia” means a disorder of constitutional origin manifested by a difficulty in learning
to read, write, or spell, despite conventional instruction, adequate intelligence, and
sociocultural opportunity."

“Related disorders” include disorders similar to or related to dyslexia, such as
developmental auditory imperception, dysphasia, specific developmental dyslexia,
developmental dysgraphia, and developmental spelling disability."

                                                                                                                TEC §38.003(d)(1)-(2) (1995)
                                       http://www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us/Docs/ED/htm/ED.38.htm#38.003