Understanding Orthographic or Surface Dyslexia

A high school student with orthographic dyslexia learning online

In the complex world of learning differences, some students receive a diagnosis of “orthographic or surface dyslexia,” while others receive a diagnosis of “phonological dyslexia” or simply “dyslexia.”

Psychologists and others who use the terminology “phonological” or “orthographic” dyslexia will generally give a student with poor phonological skills and limited phonics knowledge a diagnosis of phonological dyslexia. They will diagnose a student who has poor phonics skills but average or even strong phonological skills with orthographic or surface dyslexia.

Regardless of the terminology used, effective intervention is always based on the individual student’s strengths and weaknesses.

What Sets Orthographic Dyslexia Apart

Most people associate dyslexia with difficulty sounding out words. However, dyslexia is a complex neurobiological learning disability that affects language processing. The International Dyslexia Association provides a comprehensive definition.

In our experience, most psychologists diagnose a student with dyslexia, not with phonological or orthographic dyslexia. They then provide parents further information about the student’s phonological skills, working memory, processing speed and many other factors that influence a student’s ability to read, all based on the results of their testing.

The Telltale Signs

Students with dyslexia generally struggle to learn the sound-letter correspondences in English, called “phonics.” A student with dyslexia might:

Read slowly and deliberately
Spell words phonetically (like "seshen" instead of "session")
Struggle to read and spell irregular words such as "through"
Struggle to make the leap to also considering morphology when spelling (for example, spelling “helped” as “helpt” based purely on the sounds, without realizing that we use the “ed” to signify the past tense and that it sometimes sounds like a /t/)

Challenges for Middle School and High School Students
As students with orthographic dyslexia progress into middle and high school, the academic challenges become increasingly complex. These students often struggle with:
- More advanced reading assignments with complex vocabulary
- Research papers requiring precise spelling and academic language
- Timed writing tests and standardized exams
- Increased reliance on textbook comprehension
- Social pressures related to reading and writing performance
Recognizing and addressing dyslexia's complex manifestations is crucial. From early challenges with phonics and spelling to the more nuanced difficulties in middle and high school, students with orthographic dyslexia require targeted support that addresses their unique learning profile. By recognizing the telltale signs and proactively developing individualized strategies, educators and parents can help these students become fluent readers and good spellers, and successfully navigate their educational journey.

Intervention: A Targeted Approach
The Power of 1-on-1 Tutoring
Specialized instruction is crucial in addressing dyslexia, whether the diagnosis is orthographic dyslexia, phonological dyslexia or just plain dyslexia. One-on-one tutoring offers:
- Personalized diagnostic assessments of a student’s phonological skills and knowledge of the phonics patterns, morphology and spelling rules of our language
- Targeted skill development
- Adaptive learning strategies
- Confidence-building support
Professional Expertise Matters
When seeking help, parents and educators should consult professionals with:
- Advanced training in reading disabilities
- Multi-sensory instruction techniques
- Strong phonics program based on Orton-Gillingham as well as a strong phonological program like Heggerty or Kilpatrick
- Ability to create customized learning plans and offer high-intensity instruction
The Path Forward
With the right support, students with orthographic (and other types of) dyslexia can develop the knowledge and strategies they need to overcome their specific challenges and become confident readers and good spellers.

Understanding and supporting your student with dyslexia requires a combination of patience, expertise, and targeted intervention. Each student's journey is unique, and success comes from recognizing individual learning profiles and providing precisely tailored support.

Understanding is the first step towards empowerment. With the right approach, parents and professionals can work together to help students with orthographic dyslexia unlock their full reading potential and transform their learning experience.