The Simple Neuroscience of Dysgraphia
By: Natalie Wilcox and Brandon Slade - Founder of Untapped Learning
Dysgraphia is an often misunderstood condition. It can be explained as dysfunction in writing, or spelling without reading deficits. Oftentimes, this is coupled with the reading deficits associated with dyslexia as well, but isn’t necessary. People with dysgraphia may have difficulty with conceptualizing writing; this could be with syntax and grammar or even having issues with thinking and writing at the same time. On the surface it may seem as though this is a motor issue rather than a neurological one. However, rather than it being a muscular dysfunction, dysgraphia is an issue with the “automatization” of the integration of motor processes and language. Typically the motor areas of the cerebral cortex plan out a movement, such as writing, and then it is passed to the interior brain regions of the basal ganglia for motor initiation, and the lateral cerebellum for coordinated and automated movement. The cerebellum is typically thought of as the center for balance and motor learning, such as getting better at shooting free throws with a basketball. However, it is also important for the development of articulation, spelling, and writing, which are all actions that integrate higher thought and motion.
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