"Not dyslexic, just stupid"
So says Labour MP Graham Stringer.
Apparently, dyslexia is just a myth. Kids just aren't learning properly - according to Mr Stringer - because the wrong teaching methods are being used.
I'm not dyslexic (or, as Mr Stringer would have it, no' very bright) but I do believe the condition exists. I find it bizarre that - if what he suggests is right - a couple of my friends are dyslexic yet attended exactly the same English classes, right through school, that I did.
Anyone else - as cynical as I am - and think he just wanted some headlines?
Apparently, dyslexia is just a myth. Kids just aren't learning properly - according to Mr Stringer - because the wrong teaching methods are being used.
I'm not dyslexic (or, as Mr Stringer would have it, no' very bright) but I do believe the condition exists. I find it bizarre that - if what he suggests is right - a couple of my friends are dyslexic yet attended exactly the same English classes, right through school, that I did.
Anyone else - as cynical as I am - and think he just wanted some headlines?
5 comments:
This defies belief! To simultaneously stigmatise those with dyslexia and blame teaching methods for the lack of a 'cure' for their condition is sensationalist and insensitive.
Its akin to the old argument for oralism when deaf children were not allowed to use (or be taught) sign language because if they simply 'tried hard enough to speak' it would stimulate the speech centres in the brain and miraculously they would be able to talk. That was proven to be fundamentally flawed and borderline cruel to the children involved.
I think on this occasion your cynicism is well founded.
Disgruntled, Tumbridge Wells
I totally agree. I've worked with and been friends with enough people who are a) phenomally bright and b) dyslexic to take serious umbrage with him on their behalf.
Besides, my instinct is that Mr Stringer is normally wrong. Specifically, he forced through Manchester Runway 2 when he was the Council leader there, which was built over some of the loveliest countryside it's ever been my pleasure to tunnel under.
My cousin and an ex-colleague are both diagnosed dyslexic but still claim it's a myth. Make of that what you will!
That said, I would never wish to comment on it unless I thought I had it. Very silly stuff from the MP I think.
James, I wouldn't be too hard on him. Maybe Graham Stringer has tunnel vision....? (I'll get my coat)
I'm dyslexic and not stupid. In fact I was making my own adjustments from such an early age that they didn't recognise it until I was 20.
I wouldn't worry to much Malc, being dyslexic doesn't make one any worse at English per se than anyone else for that matter.
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