Dyslexic features in Sinhala language reading: A linguistic study based on the school children in Sri Lanka

DOI: 10.5176/2251-3566_L318.57

Authors: Prof. G.J.S. Wijesekara

Abstract: This study focuses on reading problems faced by the children with dyslexia whose first language is Sinhala in Sri Lanka. Dyslexia is a reading disability or a reading disorder which can appear in childhood or adulthood. Many studies were conducted on reading problems related to dyslexia in English Language and some other languages, yet not a study is available in the Sinhala Language. The Sinhala Language can be characterized as a syllabic language. Therefore, this research focuses on identifying different reading characteristics of dyslexia in reading Sinhala. The findings of this research will help teachers, language therapists and the researchers who are interested in studying language disabilities and the stakeholders in special needs education in the country.

Keywords: Dyslexia; disability; syllabic language; childhood; reading characteristics;