Specific learning differences involve a disorder in one of the basic processes used in understanding language both spoken and written.  They can cause a difficulty in listening, thinking, speaking, reading, writing, spelling or being able to do mathematics.  They also often occur in people of average or above average intelligence and are not due to visual, hearing or motor handicaps, emotional difficulties, environmental or economic differences.  To have a specific learning difference, individuals will not be achieving in line with age or ability.

Examples of SLDs are dyslexia, dyspraxia and dyscalculia. Difficulties experienced may include problems with word recognition, aspects of reading comprehension, aspects of writing and/or spelling or number. The exact nature and extent of these difficulties will vary from one student to another.

Dyslexia

Dyslexia is an inherited condition that makes it extremely difficult to read, write and spell in your native language - despite at least average intelligence.  It can also affect numeracy skills. Individuals may also have weaknesses in short-term and working memory, speed of processing, sequencing skills, auditory and /or visual perception, spoken language and motor skills.

Strengths can include good visuo-spatial skills, creative thinking and intuitive understanding.