A partner you can lean on.
An expert you can turn to.

The Dallas Branch IDA provides teachers with valuable information, proven strategies and robust resources for understanding dyslexia and helping students overcome their learning disability.

We'll help you comply with new legislation, and implement structured literacy to not only benefit students with dyslexia—but every child in your classroom.

For Teachers

Get valuable information, proven strategies, and robust resources for understanding dyslexia and helping your students succeed.

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Become a Tutor

Learn how to become a certified dyslexia specialist or tutor and make a difference in the lives of struggling readers.

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Professional Development

Explore training opportunities, workshops, and certification programs to enhance your skills in teaching students with dyslexia.

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Recognizing Signs & Symptoms

It is crucial to be able to recognize the signs of symptoms of dyslexia. The earlier a child is evaluated, the sooner he or she can obtain the appropriate instruction and accommodations he or she needs to succeed in school.

Common Signs

Classroom Strategies, Tips & Tools

Teaching students with dyslexia across settings is challenging. Both general education and special education teachers seek accommodations that foster the learning and management of a class of heterogeneous learners. It is important to identify accommodations that are reasonable to ask of teachers in all classroom settings.

Clarify or simplify written directions.
Present a small amount of work.
Block out extraneous stimuli.
Highlight essential information.
Provide adequate space on a page/worksheet to write answers.

Use assistive technology.
Use explicit teaching procedures.
Provide a copy of lesson notes.
Use step-by-step instruction.
Use mnemonic instruction.
Change response mode.

Encourage use of assignment books or calendars.
Have students turn lined paper vertically for math.
Design hierarchical worksheets.
Display work samples.
Use flexible work times.

More more information, download IDA's "Dyslexia in The Classroom."

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Structured Literacy

Structured Literacy instruction is an evidence-based, multi-sensory approach that integrates listening, speaking, reading, and writing. It involves a explicit, systematic and cumulative plan, making the instruction "structured."

Screening, Evaluation & Diagnosis

Early identification and intervention with students who show the warning signs of dyslexia are critically important for better outcomes later on. Researchers have identified the specific skill weaknesses that predict later reading difficulties, making early testing, identification, and remediation possible.