possibility of a learning disability ???

[Oraschi]

    
      Re: possibility of a learning disability ???
    


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Posted by CCF Neuro MD on July 22, 1997 at 09:37:22:

In Reply to: possibility of a learning disability ??? posted by Oraschi on June 24, 1997 at 12:26:10:

: I have a 13 year old boy who is measuring in with a 140 IQ.
  He is in 8th grade but is testing in with an 11th grade reading
  ability but he reads and works VERYYYYYYY slow.  He can not finish a
  timed test.  His MAT testing in 7th grade shows a 5th grade reading level
  (he couldnt finish the test)-the 11th grade reading level was determined by
  Sylvan learning Centers in their Diagnostic testing.  He is not Dislexic or
   anything that the eye doctor
  could determine. Is there a reading disability that could be present here?
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To: Oraschi,
Your concerns about a learning disability are quite appropriate in this setting.  Almost by definition, the young man’s performance in certain areas being far below his potential based on full scale IQ of 140 raises the possibility of a specific learning problem.  You report that his reading skills are advanced and yet he has problems with completing tests on time, perhaps because he reads slowly.  It is very important to have a full assessment in the situation to see whether other problems such as attention-deficit may not also contribute to the situation.  In addition, it would be useful to know  specifically how his reading was rated at 11th grade level- some children are very good with the mechanics of reading but may have problems with comprehension or manipulation of the information acquired by reading such as is required for math word problems as one example.  Finally, I wonder whether he was specifically tested for dyslexia as this is the only way to determine whether he has the problem, and the testing is not always part of a routine assessment.
I suggest you consider a full learning assessment as well as a visit with his teachers and physician if any concerns re. attention deficit are present.  The learning testing can be done through the school system, or may be obtained privately.  There is a comprehensive learning assessment clinic at Cleveland Clinic which involves an education specialist, a psychologists, neurology and speech/language professionals.  The center not only does testing, but also works with the schools and families to provide the best programs for intervention and correction of any deficits identified.  Wherever the young man is evaluated, it should be done as early as possible so that the problems can be addressed in time to ensure success in high school and pave the way for higher educational pursuits. Best of luck to you .
*Note:  This information is provided for general medical educational purposes only.  Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options of your specific medical condition.