Dyslexia is a common neurodevelopmental learning disorder that primarily affects reading and language processing. Individuals with dyslexia may struggle with decoding words, leading to challenges in reading fluency and comprehension. It is often characterized by difficulties with phonological awareness, spelling, and writing. Despite these challenges, individuals with dyslexia can excel in other areas, such as creativity and problem-solving.
Early identification and tailored educational strategies can significantly enhance their learning experience, fostering confidence and academic success. Support from educators and the use of specialized tools can help individuals navigate their unique challenges effectively.
Dysgraphia is a neurological specific learning disability that impacts writing abilities, making it challenging for individuals to express their thoughts in written form. This condition may manifest as difficulties with handwriting, spelling, and organizing written work. People with dysgraphia often experience frustration while writing due to poor motor skills or language processing issues.
Dyscalculia is a specific learning disability that affects an individual's ability to understand and work with numbers. It can manifest as difficulties in basic arithmetic, number sense, and mathematical reasoning. Those with dyscalculia may struggle to remember math facts, grasp mathematical concepts, or apply them in real-world situations.
Assessments administered individually can identify specific areas in which a person is experiencing difficulties while learning.
Learners might label themselves as terrible readers or spellers or might feel overwhelmed when doing math. Using various assessment tools, strategies can be developed to help overcome learning difficulties in both the classroom and in private tutoring sessions.
In many cases extra help after the assessment can enhance a learners achievement and well-being by allowing them to catch up and fill gaps in their learning.
Gifted and talented learners might struggle in areas of learning, sometimes not understanding why. The conventional system might not cater for them if there is no clear-cut diagnoses and strategies to help them. An assessment can give better understanding of their challenges and provide recommendations.
Assessments are usually carried out during the course of one day, however, learners aged 8 and below can benefit from being assessed over two days.
The Woodcock-Johnson (WJ-IV) assessment system is a trusted leader in individually administered assessments that can accurately evaluate learning problems. The WJ-IV consists of three independent and co-named batteries that consist of Tests of Cognitive Abilities, Tests of Achievement, and Tests of Oral Language. Strengths and weaknesses can be identified within and across tests and clusters. Standard batteries of tests are adapted to New Zealand norms.
A comprehensive individually tailored report is provided giving tests results and detailed strategies that can be used to assist in overcoming learning problems. Special assessment conditions outlined in the report can help alleviate stress experienced by learners during tests and exams.
I am Sue Linscott, a SPELD NZ trained assessor in the use of the Woodcock-Johnson system (WJ IV), providing cognitive and educational assessments since 2019.
Students and adults (ages 6 to 90 years) that are experiencing dyslexia (reading difficulties), dysgraphia (writing difficulties), and dyscalculia (math difficulties) disorders can benefit from an assessment to improve their learning outcomes.
My passion is to provide recommendations and strategies that will help learners overcome their learning problems by identifying cognitive and educational strengths and weaknesses affecting their learning.
For more information on my services and to book assessments please contact me using the contact methods below.
Sunande Linscott.
PG Dip TchLn (RTLB), Cert SLD, PG Cert (Assessments), BA (Hons), BA (Ed)
SPELD NZ Assessor, Level A, B, and C, Registered to purchase from NZCER
