Dealing with Dyslexia in Foreign Language Learning. English Textbook Evaluation

Abstract

Developmental dyslexia is largely spread throughout the world, although the impact on the school population considerably change from country to country ( Italy 3-4%, Usa 10-15% according to DRI Dyslexia Research Institute). It is widely believed that the teaching of a foreign language can create additional difficulties for the dyslexic student. The purpose of this essay is to highlight the opportunity of teaching a foreign language to dyslexic students, but with the activation of specific strategies. In the first part a comprehensive framework about dyslexia is outlined, while in the second, it is possible to see how existing literature can provide more effective teaching programmes.