Language Based Learning Disabilities
Learning disabilities fall into two major types. The first is
non-verbal, which includes disabilities from psychomotor
difficulties to dyscalculia. The other type is language based.
Language based learning disabilities include any disabilities that
affect language, from trouble distinguishing letters to difficulty
in reading comprehension.
Dyslexia is probably the most well known language based learning
disability, and may be the most common. However, dyslexia is not the
only learning disability based on language. Often dyslexia is a part
of a larger learning disability.
Dyslexia causes problems with written language. Students with
dyslexia have trouble learning to read because they have difficulty
in identifying both letters and phonemes. They may also have
problems in writing due to a tendency to misidentify or reverse
certain letters. This reversed writing is one of the best-known
symptoms of dyslexia and is often the catalyst that leads to a
diagnosis.
Students with learning disabilities that include dyslexia may also
have trouble with numbers, as the tendency to flip or reverse
letters may extend to multi-digit numbers as well. The number 1340
might become 1430 for example. Learning disabled children often have
serious trouble memorizing their own address as well as those of
others, as both the street number and name might be reversed or
flipped.
Learning disabled children who suffer language based learning
disabilities may exhibit trouble with short term memory. They may
have difficulty following the steps of mathematical calculations or
remembering instructions. Students with learning disabilities that
involve language may not correctly hear or remember things that are
said, and may have trouble processing verbally presented
information.
Language based learning disabilities appear to be hereditary in many
cases. Brain analyses have demonstrated that people with learning
disabilities actually exhibit a slight difference in brain
structure. This difference is what causes the person's difficulties.
Therefore, children whose families have a history of learning
disabilities should be closely monitored for signs of difficulty.
This does not mean that those without a family history are immune to
developing a learning disability. All children should be watched for
the following warning signs of possible language based learning
disabilities: difficulty in learning to read; difficulty in
expressing thoughts using age-appropriate vocabulary; difficulties
with grammar; difficulty in properly pronouncing words; difficulty
in organizing and planning. Other symptoms of learning disability
include: letter or number reversal or misplacement; difficulty
telling left from right; difficulty performing calculations; trouble
remembering plot lines; telling time.
If possible symptoms of language based learning disabilities are
noticed, it is important the student receive a learning disability
test. A diagnosis is generally required in order for learning
disabled children to receive benefits under the Individuals with
Disabilities Education Act. This Act ensures that students with
learning disabilities, as well as those with other types of
disability, are given the resources and tools necessary to achieve
maximum success within the school setting.
Although language based learning disabilities can not at this time
be cured, they can be managed. Many children with learning
disabilities go on to lead successful adult lives. Adults should
monitor the children in their lives for signs of a learning
disability and intervene when appropriate. In this way, a learning
disability can be integrated into the child's life and managed
properly.
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