"Dyslexia is a specific learning disability that is neurobiological in origin. It is characterized by difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities. These difficulties typically result from a deficit in the phonological component of language that is often unexpected in relation to other cognitive abilities and the provision of effective classroom instruction. Secondary consequences may include problems in reading comprehension and reduced reading experience that can impede growth of vocabulary and background knowledge.” (IDA,2024)

The IDA is an international organization whose mission is, "To create a future for all individuals who struggle with dyslexia and other related reading differences so that they may have richer, more robust lives and access to the tools and resources they need "(IDA,2024).    

"Orton Gillingham is highly structured and systematic, tries to engage all the senses in learning about letters and sounds" (Overcoming Dyslexia,S. Shaywitz, 2003).

"Structured Language explicitly teaches systematic word identification/decoding strategies. These benefit most students, but are vital for those with Dyslexia"

(IDA,2016).

*Supported by Research

*Multisensory Approach activates various pathways of the brain during learning

*Systematic, Sequential, and Cumulative

*Direct and Explicit Instruction

*Success Oriented so it builds academic confidence.

***Helpful to all, required for many.***

* Difficulty with rhyme

*Difficulty learning letter sounds

*Letter/number reversals

*Difficulty learning sight words

*Difficulty with spelling

*Dysfluent reading

*Omitting, transposing, or adding letters

*Difficulty following directions/instructions

*Poor reading comprehension

*Difficulty with math facts

*Family or personal history of reading struggles

"The purpose of The New Jersey Dyslexia Handbook: A Guide to Early Literacy Development & Reading Struggles is to provide information to educators, students, families, and community members about dyslexia, early literacy development, and the best practices for identification, instruction, and accommodation of students who have reading difficulties" (NJDOE, 2017).

The CDS trains teachers in the Orton Gillingham/Structured Language Approach. The CDS houses, "New Jersey’s only university program accredited by the International Multisensory Structured Language Education Council (IMSLEC)and only one of 18 university programs accredited by the International Dyslexia Association (IDA)" (FDU,2024).