Question 1

The presenters explained that schools often say they do not diagnose dyslexia. Instead, they decide whether a child is eligible for services under a category such as specific learning disability, which can include an impairment in reading. They noted that in Florida only a psychologist can diagnose dyslexia under state law, while other states, such as Texas, also allow educational diagnosticians, so rules vary by state. Parents should request a formal evaluation in writing rather than simply asking for “dyslexia,” and a diagnosis is based on a full profile of tests, not a single test. Once a parent gives consent, the school has a set number of school days to complete testing, so families should not wait.

Accepted Answer

The presenters explained that schools often say they do not diagnose dyslexia. Instead, they decide whether a child is eligible for services under a category such as specific learning disability, which can include an impairment in reading. They noted that in Florida only a psychologist can diagnose dyslexia under state law, while other states, such as Texas, also allow educational diagnosticians, so rules vary by state. Parents should request a formal evaluation in writing rather than simply asking for “dyslexia,” and a diagnosis is based on a full profile of tests, not a single test. Once a parent gives consent, the school has a set number of school days to complete testing, so families should not wait.

Question 2

Structured literacy is explicit, systematic, sequential, and cumulative teaching that covers phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, and writing. A typical 45 to 60 minute session reviews prior skills, teaches one or two new concepts, practices blending and spelling, uses decodable readers, and ends with dictation and comprehension. The presenters said a child with dyslexia may need 20 to 30 repetitions of a skill, so they recommend at least two and preferably three sessions a week, and that remediation often takes one to two years on average, although no reputable provider can guarantee a timeline.

Accepted Answer

Structured literacy is explicit, systematic, sequential, and cumulative teaching that covers phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, and writing. A typical 45 to 60 minute session reviews prior skills, teaches one or two new concepts, practices blending and spelling, uses decodable readers, and ends with dictation and comprehension. The presenters said a child with dyslexia may need 20 to 30 repetitions of a skill, so they recommend at least two and preferably three sessions a week, and that remediation often takes one to two years on average, although no reputable provider can guarantee a timeline.

Question 3

The presenters said an IEP should describe the instruction rather than name a brand, for example intensive, explicit, multisensory, systematic structured literacy, and should include assistive technology, often starting as early as second grade, plus a transition plan or vocational rehabilitation referral by middle school. They also noted that a 504 plan gives accommodations but does not require services the way an IEP does. For high school, they suggested starting SAT and ACT preparation and accommodation conversations in ninth grade, taking the PSAT early, and considering CLEP exams and dual enrollment. In college the IEP ends, so students should bring their documentation to the campus disability services office and advocate for themselves.

Accepted Answer

The presenters said an IEP should describe the instruction rather than name a brand, for example intensive, explicit, multisensory, systematic structured literacy, and should include assistive technology, often starting as early as second grade, plus a transition plan or vocational rehabilitation referral by middle school. They also noted that a 504 plan gives accommodations but does not require services the way an IEP does. For high school, they suggested starting SAT and ACT preparation and accommodation conversations in ninth grade, taking the PSAT early, and considering CLEP exams and dual enrollment. In college the IEP ends, so students should bring their documentation to the campus disability services office and advocate for themselves.

Understanding the WIAT-4: What It Is, What to Expect, and How to Read the Scores

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