Writing Resources
LOW-TECH (Easy)
Available School Based - Standard Classroom Tools
- Allow extra time to complete written work and/or assignments.
- Allow for oral reports in place of written.
- Use fill in the blank, short answer questions for homework/classroom assignments.
- Provide notes of lectures in .pdf format.
- Educate on short-hand note taking strategies.
- Provide outlines or notes with phrases or words missing.
- Use lists for homework, vocabulary.
- Use graphic organizers; webbing, Venn diagram, bubble map.
- Implement systematic note taking; i.e., Cornell notes.
- Place letter strips on desk for quick viewing of proper letter formation.
- Shorten written assignments.
- Use of pencil grips or modified pencils.
- Use of adapted paper (bolded lines, raised lines, color-coded, secure paper to desk).
- Color-code examples - Top line BLUE , Bottom line GREEN
- Sample lined paper 1
- Sample lined paper 2
- Highlight key points of preprinted notes.
- Use slanted surface (i.e., 3-inch binder slanted upward).
- Text holder to hold notes on a vertical surface.
- When copying notes, consider preferential seating toward the front of the room facing the board.
- Project Based Learning – using SMART Notebook, Power Point or Word.
- Portable Word Processors for typing.
MID-TECH
Available School Based - Standard Classroom Tools
- Word Predication software- Write-out-Loud, Co-Writer, Read & Write GOLD.
- Use software graphic organizers, i.e.-Inspiration, Kidspiration (available throughout NNPS).
- Allow access to a word processor for long writing assignments.
- Dictation to a scribe.
- Provide digital copies of notes of lectures or have a friend/buddy take notes using Carbon or NCR paper.
Online Resources
- Houghton Mifflin English
- Harcourt
- Brainpop
- Kidport Language Arts
- Read, Write, Think - Resources
- Writing Den
- Fun With Letters
- Spelling City
- Read, Write, Think - Essay Map
Typing Resources
- Article on Keyboard Research (from Ian Jukes)
- Computer Circus
- Learn2Type.com
- Cup Stacking Typing Game: Surfing the Net with Kids
- The Typing of the Ghosts: Surfing the Net with Kids
- BBC - Schools - Dance Mat Typing
- MousePracticeCatch33
- Typing Pal Online
- Typing Pal Online - Exercises
- Home keys and the home row - Lesson one
- Typing Tutor for Beginning Typists
- Peter's Typing Lessons - visual and auditory cues