Aarav is in Class 3 at a school in Jaipur. He talks fluently, understands the rules of a new game quickly, plays happily with friends and can sit through a whole lesson. Yet he takes very long to read a simple sentence aloud, often mixes up letters such as 'b' and 'd', and his spelling is far behind that of his classmates. His teacher finds his reading level well below that expected for his age. After a year of extra one-to-one help in reading at school, his reading reaches a level his teacher finds acceptable.
Which of the following best describes Aarav's condition?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → Specific learning disorder
Option (1) Specific learning disorder — Correct. In specific learning disorder the child has trouble processing information in basic skills like reading, writing or mathematics. It shows in the early school years, and the child performs below his age. Aarav's reading problem, with acceptable performance after extra help, fits this.
Option (2) Intellectual disability — Incorrect. Intellectual disability means below-average general intellectual functioning along with problems in everyday adaptive skills. Aarav talks well and picks up new games quickly, so his overall ability is not low.
Option (3) Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder — Incorrect. In ADHD the child shows inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity, such as being unable to sit still or keep attention on a task. Aarav sits through whole lessons, so this does not fit.
Option (4) Autism spectrum disorder — Incorrect. Autism spectrum disorder involves difficulty in social interaction and communication, with narrow interests and a strong need for routine. Aarav talks fluently and plays happily with friends, so this does not fit.
NCERT (2026-27): “Neurodevelopmental Disorders … |