Dyslexia is caused by a neurological dysfunction, which affects the links between the left and the right hand sides of the brain. Recent research indicates that it is hereditary and that it does not affect intelligence or ability.

Do many people have dyslexia?

• The British Dyslexia Association (BDA) estimates that up to 10% of the UK population have dyslexic tendencies
  
• More boys than girls are assessed as dyslexic in UK schools
  
• Many people who are dyslexic are successful in business, the creative arts, science, engineering and IT (See Success Stories - famous people with dyslexia)
  

Some typical effects of dyslexia:

• Limited and unreliable short term memory
  
• Persistent difficulty in expressing fully and accurately in writing what has been learned and understood
  
• Higher marks gained for coursework than for exams
  
• Lack of confidence
  
• Low self esteem
  
• Aggressive or uncooperative behaviour
  

Summary of common problems:

• Poor Concentration
  
• Inaccurate spelling
  
• Limited written vocabulary
  
• Slow reading
  
• Unreliable memory
  
• Possible misunderstanding of instructions, essay titles, exam questions
  
• Difficulty in planning and writing reports, essays, portfolios, dissertations and presentations
  
• Difficulty in meeting deadlines
  

Underdeveloped Skills:

• Handwriting
  
• Spelling
  
• Punctuation
  
• Grammar
  
• Reading techniques
  
• Taking notes
  
• Remembering ideas, information, names, dates
  
• Planning and organisational skills