What are effective strategies for developing a plan to address dysgraphia in students?

3 Teach explicit and systematic writing instruction

The third step in developing a plan for dysgraphia is to teach explicit and systematic writing instruction that targets the student's specific skill gaps and builds on their strengths. This type of instruction should explain the purpose, steps, and rules of a writing skill or strategy, providing examples, modeling, practice, and feedback. Additionally, it should follow a logical sequence that progresses from simple to complex skills or strategies. For example, teaching the student the components and structure of different types of writing, such as narrative, informative, and persuasive; the rules and patterns of spelling, grammar, and punctuation; multisensory techniques for improving their handwriting; as well as vocabulary and word choice strategies like using synonyms, antonyms, or context clues. All of these provide valuable opportunities for practice and application.

4 Monitor and adjust the plan

The fourth step in developing a plan for dysgraphia is to monitor and adjust the plan according to the student's progress and needs. You can use formative and summative assessments, such as quizzes, tests, portfolios, or rubrics, to measure the student's writing skills and growth. You can also collect feedback from the student, their parents, and their teachers, to evaluate the effectiveness and appropriateness of the plan. Based on the data and feedback, you can modify the plan as needed, such as by adding, removing, or changing the accommodations, modifications, or instruction.

5 Collaborate with other professionals and stakeholders

The fifth step in developing a plan for dysgraphia is to collaborate with other professionals and stakeholders who are involved in the student's education and well-being. You can consult with specialists, such as speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, or psychologists, to gain insights and recommendations for addressing the student's writing challenges. You can also communicate and coordinate with the student's teachers, parents, and peers, to ensure consistency and support for the plan. By collaborating with others, you can create a comprehensive and holistic plan that meets the student's academic, social, and emotional needs.

6 Foster a positive and supportive writing environment

The sixth step in developing a plan for dysgraphia is to foster a positive and supportive writing environment that encourages the student's writing development and confidence. To do this, you should respect and value the student's writing voice, style, and interests. Additionally, provide opportunities for the student to write for authentic and meaningful purposes and audiences, celebrate their writing achievements and improvements, empower them to set and pursue their own writing goals and challenges, and build a writing community that fosters collaboration, feedback, and learning from others. By following these six steps, you can develop a plan that addresses dysgraphia in your students and helps them improve their writing skills and enjoyment.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?