(Left Brain vs Right Brain
Processing)
Dyslexia mainly affects language
processing, which is commonly linked to left-hemisphere brain functions.
However, many dyslexic individuals show significant strengths in
right-hemisphere processing — particularly in creativity, spatial awareness,
and big-picture thinking.
It is important to remember that the
brain works as a whole system. Both hemispheres communicate through the corpus
callosum, so strengths and weaknesses interact rather than exist in isolation.
🧠 Left Hemisphere Functions (Often Areas of Difficulty)
The left brain is associated with
structured, language-based and sequential processing.
Common Dyslexia Weaknesses
Reading & Language
Difficulty decoding words (phonics)
Poor phonological awareness
Slow reading fluency
Misreading similar words
Difficulty understanding complex
text
Spelling & Writing
Inconsistent spelling
Letter reversals or omissions
Poor written expression
Grammar and punctuation challenges
Sequencing & Memory
Difficulty remembering sequences
(alphabet, days, instructions)
Problems following multi-step
directions
Weak working memory
Processing Speed
Slow rapid naming (objects, letters,
numbers)
Takes longer to retrieve words
Academic Skills
Challenges with note-taking
Struggles with timed tests
Difficulty copying from the board
🌈 Right Hemisphere Functions (Often Areas of Strength)
The right brain specializes in
holistic, visual, and intuitive processing.
Common Dyslexia Strengths
Creative Thinking
Strong imagination
Artistic ability
Storytelling skills
Innovative ideas
Big-Picture Understanding
Sees overall concepts quickly
Understands themes and meaning
Strong at connecting ideas
Spatial Awareness
Excellent 3D visualization
Good at design, engineering concepts
Strong map reading/navigation skills
Problem Solving
Thinks outside the box
Finds alternative solutions
Practical reasoning
Emotional & Social Insight
High empathy
Reads body language well
Intuitive understanding of others
Hands-On Learning
Excels in practical tasks
Learns by doing rather than reading
⚖️ Left vs Right Brain Overview
|
Left Brain (Weaker Areas) |
Right Brain (Stronger Areas) |
|
Phonics & decoding |
Visual thinking |
|
Spelling & grammar |
Creativity |
|
Sequencing |
Big-picture thinking |
|
Rapid naming |
Spatial awareness |
|
Reading fluency |
Imagination |
|
Written expression |
Problem solving |
|
Processing speed |
Intuition |
🧩 How Strengths Balance Weaknesses
Many dyslexic learners compensate
for language difficulties by using visual and spatial strategies, such as:
Visualizing stories instead of
decoding word-by-word
Remembering images rather than text
Understanding concepts through
diagrams
Using logic and reasoning instead of
memorization
Teaching & Support Strategies
(Strength-Based Approaches)
Effective instruction engages
right-hemisphere strengths while supporting left-hemisphere development.
Multisensory Learning
Use multiple senses at once:
Sight (visuals, color coding)
Sound (read aloud, phonics)
Touch (tracing, textured letters)
Movement (role play, actions)
Examples:
Sand writing
Magnetic letters
Clapping syllables
Visual Mapping
Tools that organize information
visually:
Mind maps
Graphic organizers
Flow charts
Diagrams
Sketch notes
These help learners see the whole
concept first.
“Whole-to-Parts” Instruction
Show the finished product or big
picture
Explain the overall meaning
Break it into smaller steps
This mirrors how many dyslexic
learners naturally process information.
Interactive & Hands-On Learning
Practical projects
Experiments
Building models
Educational games
Role-play scenarios
Learning becomes active rather than
text-heavy.
Storytelling & Visual Imagery
Use:
Stories
Metaphors
Pictures
Films
Real-life examples
Abstract ideas become concrete and
memorable.
Key Messages for Training
Dyslexia is not linked to
intelligence.
It is a language processing
difference.
Weaknesses often coexist with
significant strengths.
Many dyslexic people excel in:
Arts
Engineering
Entrepreneurship
Design
Problem-solving careers
Communication Support for Dyslexia
Communication support for dyslexia
involves using assistive technology, structured communication methods, and
environmental adjustments to improve both:
Reading and writing (literacy)
Verbal expression and understanding
Because dyslexia affects processing,
memory, sequencing, and word retrieval, supportive communication approaches
help reduce barriers and improve confidence, participation, and performance.
Key Communication Supports &
Accommodations
1. Assistive Technology
Assistive technology can remove many
literacy barriers and allow individuals to communicate more efficiently.
Text-to-Speech (TTS)
Converts digital text into audio.
Supports reading comprehension.
Reduces visual stress and reading
fatigue.
Helpful for emails, reports,
websites, and textbooks.
Speech-to-Text (Dictation)
Allows users to dictate notes,
emails, and documents.
Improves productivity.
Reduces spelling and handwriting
difficulties.
Useful for assignments, reports, and
forms.
Screen Readers & Scanning Tools
Read on-screen text aloud.
Smart pens can record audio while
taking notes.
Tools such as reading software
support editing and proofreading.
Spellcheck & Grammar Tools
Provide instant corrections.
Improve written accuracy.
Build confidence in written
communication.
2. Written Communication Strategies
Small adjustments to written
materials can significantly improve accessibility.
Structure
Use short, clear sentences.
Avoid long paragraphs.
Use bullet points and headings.
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