It is normal for a person to display a few behaviors on this list. However, a persistent pattern, over 75%, of these symptoms may indicate an SLD.

Reading/Visual Perception

• Poor phonics
• Slow reading rate or adjusting rate for material difficulty
• Problems understanding, expressing, or remembering what is read
• Difficulty finding main point
• Difficulty with spoken directions
• Misinterpretation of words
  Writing
  
  • Frequent spelling errors
  • Overly large handwriting and poorly formed letters due to difficulty spacing
  • Slow writing rate
  • Difficulty with sentence structure, grammar, capitalization, and punctuation
  • Difficulty copying from chalkboard or book
  • Compositions lack organization and/or development of ideas
  Math
  
  • Difficulty recalling arithmetic operations, facts and rules
  • Confusing or reversing numbers, sequences, math symbols
  • Difficulty reading or understanding word problems
  • Difficulty keeping columns or rows in line
  • Incomplete mastery of basic facts
  Spoken
  
  • Poor ability to remember or understand verbal or written instructions
  • Difficulty expressing ideas or thoughts aloud or written
  • Problems describing events in proper sequence
  • Problems with grammar or ideas when spoken instead of writing or vice versa
  Haptic (Kinesthetic-Tactile)
  
  • Prefers hands-on learning
  • Difficulty sitting still due to learning better when physical activity is involved
  Social Skills
  
  • Difficulty understanding body language or facial expressions
  • Problems interpreting or understanding subtle messages like sarcasm
  • Confusion related to time, directions, and visual-motor coordination
  • Poor judgment leading to behavior problems
  • Problems meeting and cooperating with others
  Study Skills
  
  • Poor organization and time management
  • Difficulties beginning and sticking with studies
  • Poor note taking and outlining skills
  • Problems finding and using information from different sources
  • Difficulties and anxiety taking tests
  • Poor memory and recall of information or events
  • Problems with attention and concentration (start and stay)
  • Poor organization
  • Inability to complete assignments in time allowed
  • Short attention span
  Auditory
  
  • Prefers to get information by listening
  • Difficulty following written directions
  • Difficulty with reading and writing

  Taken from Disabilities A to Z, A Parents Complete guide to Learning Disabilities From Preschool to Adulthood by Smith et. al. (see reference page)
  

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