Writing Tasks in School and the Role of AT

Writing Tasks in School:

In school, the most common writing tasks include:

· Completion of worksheets;

· Writing words, sentences, paragraphs or pages;

· Note taking;

· Projects; and

· Tests

Completion of these tasks involves writing composition, the ability to express ideas in a way that is meaningful to others. Steps in the process of composition include:

1. Pre-writing, brainstorming and planning;

2. Drafting; and

3. Proof reading, editing and evaluating

AT & Writing:

To support students with all of the skills required for effective writing, an assistive technology (AT) toolbox of writing supports can be put in place that includes tools that range from low-tech to high-tech. With advancements in technology, more writing tasks are being completed electronically, which presents the struggling writer with a wide variety of available electronic writing tools.

Many parents and teachers wonder when assistive supports for writing should begin to be used for students whose handwriting is illegible. Low-tech solutions, such as pencil grips and wide-lined paper, are appropriate for many beginning writers. However, when children have a lot of ideas to communicate and are unsuccessful writing words legibly on paper due to what appear to be physical limitations, the IEP team should consider additional AT options, including higher-tech options. These options should be considered before the struggling writer starts to avoid writing, shuts down or has a need for an adult scribe.

AT tools that support the physical and cognitive skills of writing or provide a manageable sensory environment greatly reduce the stress levels for struggling writers. These tools allow student writers to place primary focus on what is being written rather than than how or where it is written.