Writing Extensions

read&write for Google Chrome: r&w for Google Chrome is a commercially developed extension suite that supports students in the areas of reading and writing. It is purchased based on a subscription basis but it is free for teachers to use. Unlike some free extensions that may disappear or lack technical support, TextHelp is constantly improving the product and looking to add new features.

ATBar: this is also an accessibility suite but unlike r&w, it is completely free. The tools contained within this extension are not necessarily exclusive to writing but cover a multitude of supports to assist students with disabilities. These include font customization (size and style), spellchecking, dictionary, text-to-speech, word prediction and colour overlay.

Google Dictionary: double-click any word on a web page to get a pop-up with the definition and audible pronunciation.

Grammarly/Ginger: a spelling and grammar checker that works as you type

Voice Note II: allows you to type simply by speaking (dictation). Most of these tools require an active connection to the internet. Be aware that everything that is said is sent to a server and therefore privacy may be compromised.

Google Translate: this tool allows students to quickly translate a word or a phrase from one language to another

EasyBib: a tool designed to ease the process of creating a bibliography. Many students struggle with citation conventions. This extension makes it easier by automatically adding sources from the internet and creating an entry using the correct convention. It can be adjusted for APA or MLA style.

OpenDyslexic/Helper Bird: overrides all fonts on webpages with the OpenDyslexic font, and formats pages to be more easily readable