Dyslexia tutoring with the Slingerland Approach

What is Dyslexia and how can the Slingerland Approach help?

According to the definition adopted by the International Dyslexia Association (IDA), dyslexia is a neurobiological learning difference characterized primarily by difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word recognition, decoding, spelling, and phonological processing. Difficulties with reading comprehension and reduced reading experience may occur as secondary consequences of these word-level reading challenges. Dyslexia is unrelated to intelligence.

Dyslexia affects the brain systems involved in processing spoken and written language, particularly the phonological (sound) structure of language and the ability to connect sounds to written symbols (orthographic mapping). Reading involves many regions of the brain, but research has consistently shown that difficulties with phonological processing are strongly associated with dyslexia.

Children with dyslexia may rely more heavily on memorization of whole words rather than efficient phonetic decoding strategies if explicit, systematic instruction is not provided.

If you’re concerned about your child’s reading or spelling, starting with a comprehensive dyslexia assessment can provide the clarity you need. Learn more about dyslexia assessments here.

What does the Science of Learning tell us?

The science of learning shows that the brain actively connects new information to existing knowledge. The metalinguistic approach used in Orton-Gillingham—where learners engage in analyzing and manipulating language elements—is well aligned with the science of reading. In each lesson, the teacher builds on prior knowledge to introduce and reinforce new concepts.

The Slingerland Approach enables students to actively engage in the learning process rather than rely on rote memory.