The meaning of dyslexia

Thursday July 7, 2005

The meaning of dyslexia

The word “dyslexia” is derived from the Greek word for “dys” (meaning “difficulty”) and “lexia” (which means “written words”).

About 5%-10% of the population, or one in 20, are dyslexic. They find it hard to learn to read and write, even though their level of intelligence is normal with an average IQ of 100. In fact, some are very bright with an IQ exceeding 100.

Dyslexics do not have any apparent deficit in the area of speech and social interaction which are prevalent in varying degrees among those who fall under the category of “learning disabled” (LD).

In developed countries, dyslexia is defined as a specific learning disability.

But in Malaysia, dyslexia is still listed under the LD category which includes persons with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy and mental retardation. The current LD classification is for persons with an IQ of less than 70. To put dyslexics under the LD category would mean they are slow learners. But they are not.

To cater to their needs, a different assessment for exams should be implemented just like their Western counterparts. For example, instead of having to sit for five subjects in UPSR, dyslexics need to take only three.

Readmasters and writers should be provided for dyslexics during examinations to enable them to answer the questions orally and they should be given extra time.

Since language is an issue for persons with learning difficulties, they should be exempted from having to cope with more than one language in school. There should be an option to have the entire lessons taught either in Bahasa Malaysia or English but not both together. By concentrating solely on one language, it would reduce stress not only for the students but also for the teachers and parents.

Dipetik dari: Archive thestar.com.my