Dysgraphia refers to challenges with writing abilities, specifically related to transcription. Transcription skills allow students to improve handwriting, typing, and spelling and produce writing more clearly.
Students typically have difficulties with:
Handwriting
Letter formation
Writing coherent sentences
Spacing struggles
Problems controlling writing tools such as pencils
Teaching Strategies
Talk partners / study buddy
Read text to them
Handouts instead of copying tasks
Coloured paper / screen or overlay
Repeat instructions
Chunked tasks
Processing time
Memory aids: working walls, learning mats, regularly repeating key information
Ensure fonts on whiteboard are clear and of a reasonable size. We will not use a “white” background and will endeavour to use the correct colour backgrounds where indicated by individual pupils preference
Effective modelling through I do, we do, you do approach to ensure that children feel ready to work independently and apply key skills
Recap new learning frequently
Use of ICT if appropriate
Mark for content not presentation
Avoid marking every spelling or mathematical error
Alternatives to writing - mindmaps etc.
Scaffolding
Visual aids for sequencing
Extra time
Strategies to aid organisation
Provide pupil with study pack
Record home learning for them
Multi-sensory approach-visual, auditory and kinaesthetic
Use off white paper and cursive script
Provide writing frames to support organisation
Access to prompts and visual aids
Print instructions off the whiteboard so that they can be seen by the pupil
Use line trackers and/or coloured overlays if appropriate
Provide opportunities for the pupil to re-learn and over-learn
Encourage the process of drafting and redrafting
Make sure homework is in a format that is easy for the pupils to access
Examples of Resources and Classroom-Based Provision
Resources, equipment, homework book/diaries make use of consistent symbol and colour coding
Use of ICT programs and apps to reinforce and revise what has been taught
Use small whiteboards and pen for notes or to try out spellings, record ideas etc. to support short term memory
Range of coloured overlays/ reading rulers available
Coloured paper for worksheets/ workbooks and coloured background on smart board
Use coloured pens to support learning spellings, identifying different sections of text, one colour for each sentence etc.
Mark starting point for each line with green/coloured dot or symbol
Extra reading practice
Additional writing practise – dictation
Improve working memory playing memory games
Cloze procedure exercises to vary writing tasks and demonstrate understanding
Regular spelling tests
Focus on high frequency words
Inform parents/guardians of any new words/spellings so that they can be worked on at home
Google forms/ quizzes to test new knowledge
Further Reading
Useful websites
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References:
Pearson 5 strategies for supporting SEN children in your classroom: https://docs.google.com/document/d/15znzFEcH1S41PK1TW9ewJ_DNpb8m-Xr6QCIP6_KR6EE/edit?usp=sharing
St Martin's Areas of need QFT checklist: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/16SamvYGDzL7eCB7229gGY0IjCqlrKXxiXtcu1bVlv-M/edit?usp=sharing
St Martin's QFT - Universal Provision: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1lx4pRBu6vq1-eUj19J0fof4u40X9mHOFD30fX3S00og/edit?usp=sharing
British Dyslexia Association: See Dyslexia Differently: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=11r7CFlK2sc
The Dyslexia Resource: Defining Dyslexia and Dysgraphia: https://dyslexiaresource.org/defining-dyslexia-and-dysgraphia/
The Dyslexia Society: Dysgraphia: https://www.dyslexia.uk.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Definition-of-Dysgraphia-1.pdf
Translational Pediatrics: Disorder of written expression and dysgraphia: definition, diagnosis, and management: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/339430135_Disorder_of_written_expression_and_dysgraphia_definition_diagnosis_and_management
Understood: What Is Dysgraphia in Kids?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_JYphwPhNp8