The Neurobiology of Dyslexia

Advances in neurobiological research have created new opportunities for understanding and exploring dyslexia. The purpose of this article is to (a) provide a straightforward, although not overly simplified, overview of neurological research on dyslexia and (b) make connections between neurological research and classroom interventions for students with dyslexia. Key ideas are that neuroscience confirms the importance of systematic phonics instruction, neuroimaging has led to new ideas about how dyslexia might be treated, and specific brain regions and pathways are involved in reading. Educational neuroscience remains in early stages, but the immediate relevance for the classroom is emerging.