Specific learning disability
Last updated
A specific learning disability is a disorder in a basic learning process that affects listening, thinking, speaking, reading, writing, spelling or math.
Topic: Disability categories and conditions
In plain terms
SLD is the most common IDEA category. It includes conditions such as dyslexia, dysgraphia and dyscalculia, and excludes learning problems that are mainly the result of vision, hearing or motor disabilities, intellectual disability, emotional disturbance, or cultural, environmental or economic disadvantage. States choose how to identify SLD: response to intervention data, a pattern of strengths and weaknesses, or other research-based methods.
How it shows up in an IEP
Goals target the specific skill gaps, such as decoding, spelling, written expression or math computation, with direct measures like CBM. Accommodations help the student access grade-level work while the skills are taught.
Example
A sixth grader with an SLD in reading has a goal to decode multisyllable words with 90% accuracy, plus text-to-speech for content-area reading.
The rule
Federal reference: 34 CFR §300.8(c)(10), 34 CFR §300.307.
Rules vary by state. Check your state's regulations and your district's procedures.
Related terms
- DyslexiaDyslexia is a specific learning disability that mainly affects accurate, fluent word reading and spelling, often rooted in processing speech sounds.
- DysgraphiaDysgraphia is a learning difficulty with writing that can affect handwriting, spelling and putting thoughts into written words.
- DyscalculiaDyscalculia is a specific learning disability in math that affects number sense, learning math facts and accurate, fluent calculation.
- RTI (Response to Intervention)RTI is a school process that screens all students, gives tiered extra instruction to those who struggle, and uses progress data to decide what help comes next.
- Eligibility determinationEligibility determination is the team decision, made after an evaluation, about whether a child has a disability under IDEA and needs special education.
On IEP Atlas
- Phonics & Decoding IEP goals
- Written Expression IEP goals
- Number Sense IEP goals
- IEP goals for dyslexia
This page describes special education terms and federal rules in general terms and is not legal advice. Our editorial policy explains how IEP Atlas writes and reviews content. Browse all 244 terms.