Learning Disability (LD) in Basic Reading

A learning disability in basic reading affects the learner's ability to read words in isolation and in passages.

LDs in basic reading likely involve difficulty with language processing and visual reasoning centers of the brain. They are believed to be caused by inherited conditions or developmental differences in the brain. They are not due solely to vision problems, difficulty with hearing or speech and language disabilities, or lack of instruction.

People with LDs in basic reading have difficulty understanding the link between letters and sounds. As a result, they cannot decode words or use phonics skills to sound out words. Reading is physically and psychologically draining for them. They are often embarrassed by this and avoid reading whenever they can.

Evaluation can provide information to help educators develop effective strategies. Typical strategies focus on using pre-reading tasks, developing sight word vocabulary, mediated reading instruction, phonics, and possibly language therapy to help students understand the link between sounds, letters, and words.

All students with learning disabilities are at-risk for being seen as less capable than they really are. People with LDs in basic reading have general learning ability that is as high as, or higher than their peers. They simply have a skill deficit in this area. They may become frustrated because of the effort they must put forth to get their work done. They may appear as if they are not putting forth effort, when they are just overwhelmed.

Standardized diagnostic reading tests can be used to determine what specific types of problems are affecting the learner's reading skills. Through observations, analyzing student work, cognitive assessment, and possibly language assessment, educators can develop individualized education plans.

If you believe you or your child has LD in basic reading, contact your school principal or counselor for information on how to request an assessment. For students in college and vocational programs, their school's advising office can assist with finding resources to help ensure their success.