What is a major sign of a specific learning disability (SLD)?

A major sign of a specific learning disability (SLD) is identified as a significant discrepancy between a child's intellectual ability and academic performance. This means that a student's measured intelligence is considerably higher than their performance in specific academic areas, such as reading, writing, or math. This discrepancy is pivotal in diagnosing SLD, as it indicates that while cognitive capacity exists, the child struggles to apply that intelligence to learning tasks, highlighting specific areas of difficulty that are not reflective of their overall intellectual potential.

This kind of discrepancy serves as a cornerstone for distinguishing SLD from other issues that may affect learning, as it emphasizes a significant gap rather than a uniform lack of achievement across all subjects or interests. Recognizing this gap allows educators and specialists to tailor interventions that target the specific learning needs of the child.