Summary Of Overcoming Dyslexia By Dr. Sally Shaywitz

Overcoming Dyslexia by Dr. Sally Shaywitz is an in-depth book describing dyslexia and how it affects readers. I would break this text down into the following three parts: when and how to get screened for dyslexia, what dyslexia will mean for a reader with this issue, and how to overcome this issue. After reading the book, I have reconsidered the way I will teach in numerous ways. One of those reconsiderations is how to present tests. As a math teacher, jargon can be a serious hindrance to a student with dyslexia. Rather than passing out an exam and letting students work, I will go over each set of directions out loud. Not only will I read the exam, but I will clarify instructions for them. The test should assess whether or not they accomplish the objective. It should not assess how well they can read.
The book was extensive in its description of early warning signs of dyslexia in young children, adolescents, and adults. One of the most important aspects of this book was the way the author dispelled the idea that dyslexia is a “theoretical issue” rather than a real physical one. Because the author is a neurologist, she goes into depth about the science of dyslexia. She also paints a detailed picture of a child that has dyslexia. The reader will find that the child is likely smart and talented in many ways other than reading. This is important for two reasons. One reason is teachers and other advocates for education should realize that it’s not just low-SES or low achieving students who might be dyslexic. Another reason it is important that the author paints a detailed picture is to remind the reader that dyslexia does not “doom” a child. Rather, it can cause them to bolster many of their other skills to make up for areas they struggle