A disorder that affects understanding and use of language.

Such as the ability to listen,

think, speak, read, write, spell or do math.


Types of Specific Learning Disabilities


Auditory Processing
Disorder
Trouble recognizing difference between sounds and words
Dyscalculia Affects the ability to understand numbers and learn math facts, symbols and
often times, trouble counting
Dysgraphia Affects fine motor skills and handwriting, language based skills
Dyslexia Affects reading and language based comprehension. Trouble processing
letters and symbols
Language Processing
Disorder
Difficulty attaching meaning to sound groups, trouble hearing and
expressing what is said
Non-Verbal Learning
Disability
Discrepancy between higher verbal skills and weaker motor, visual-spatial
and social skills
Visual Perceptual/Visual
Motor Deficit
Missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place
frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor
eye/hand coordination.

Learning Strategies

Dyslexia Learning Disability in Reading
Provide a quiet area for activities such as reading
and answering comprehension questions
Use books on tape
Dont count spelling on history, science or other
similar tests
Allow alternative forms for book reports
Allow the use of a laptop or other computer for
in-class essays
Present material in small units


Dysgraphia - Learning Disability in Writing
Avoid chastising student for sloppy, careless
work
Use oral exams
Allow the use of a note taker
Provide notes or outlines to reduce the amount of
writing required
Provide alternatives to written assignments
(videotaped reports, audio-taped reports)

Dyscalculia Learning Disability in Math
Use diagrams and draw math concepts
Provide peer assistance
Suggest use of colored pencils to differentiate
problems
Work with manipulatives
Schedule computer time for the student for drill
and practice


Dysphasia Learning Disability in Language
Speak slowly and clearly and use simple
sentences to convey information
Write main concepts on board
Use visualization techniques to enhance listening
and comprehension
Draw out details with questions and visualization
strategies

Dyspraxia Learning Disability in Motor
Skills
Avoid grading handwriting
Provide alternative for written assignments
Use large print books
Use books on tape

Auditory Processing Disorder
Vary pitch and tone of voice, alter pace, stress
key words
Ask specific questions as you teach to find out if
they do understand
Show rather than explain
Use Visual cues, signals, handouts, manipulatives

Visual Processing Disorder
Verbally point out similarities, differences and
connections
Answer the students questions when possible, be
specific when answering them
Thoroughly prepare the child in advance for field
trips, or other changes, regardless of how minimal
Give several verbal cues before transition



Resources
http://www.utahparentcenter.org/disabilities/sld/ - Website for Utah parents and teachers,
this website provides information on SLD and resources for Utah families.
http://ldaamerica.org/types-of-learning-disabilities/ - Great resource for more information
on what a SLD is, types and characteristics of each.
http://www.helpguide.org/home-pages/learning-disabilities.htm - A great resource with
helpful information about learning disabilities, and physical, mental & emotional health.
http://www.sess.ie/categories/specific-learning-disabilities - The Special Education
Support Service is a website that includes information, additional support and resources
pertaining to learning disabilities.
http://www.do2learn.com/academics/LearningStrategies/index.htm This awesome
website includes a lot of useful information about all disabilities and provides various
learning strategies and behavior management tools.