Which of the following best describes a primary characteristic of students with dyslexia?

The primary characteristic of students with dyslexia is deficits in reading accuracy and fluency. Dyslexia is a specific learning disability that primarily affects reading. Students with dyslexia often struggle with decoding words, which can lead to difficulties in reading both quickly and accurately. This results in challenges not only with comprehension but also with the ability to read fluently, as they may read at a slower pace compared to their peers.

This defining trait is crucial for identifying dyslexia and differentiating it from other learning differences. While it is true that students with dyslexia may experience anxiety related to their reading difficulties or may have varying levels of engagement in classroom activities, these are not primary characteristics of dyslexia itself. Mathematical skills can also vary among students with dyslexia, and thus it is not considered a defining feature of the condition.