What is it?
Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD) are difficulties with processing information in particular areas, often including reading, writing, listening, or expressing ideas verbally. Students may struggle to understand language, follow instructions, or communicate effectively, even though their intelligence is average or above.
How can I identify it?
You might notice students:
- Struggle to follow multi-step instructions
- Have difficulty understanding or remembering spoken information
- Find it hard to express ideas verbally or in writing
- Appear inconsistent in performance across different tasks
How can I support this student?
- Use clear instructions and repeat key information to support understanding.
- Repeat or rephrase key information
- Allow alternative ways to respond (oral, visual, or written)
- Use visual supports, diagrams, or cue cards
How can other students support?
- Repeat instructions if needed.
- Encourage alternative ways of expressing ideas.
- Work collaboratively, breaking tasks into small steps.
- Celebrate effort and small achievements.
Hints and Tips
- Check understanding frequently
- Encourage students to ask questions
- Break tasks into smaller, manageable chunks
- Provide positive reinforcement for effort and progress
For more in the Neurodiversity Series
How to Support students with Reading Difficulties
What is Dysgraphia: Writing Challenges Explained
What is Dyscalculia: Helping Students Navigate Numbers
Understanding students living with ADHD
Dyspraxia: Coordination and Organisation
What is Special Learning Disabilities (SLD)
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
What is Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)