Classroom accommodations for written expression disorder
Explore this list of classroom accommodations for written expression disorder. Download and print a list of supports to use at school — and even at home.
Writing is a key way that students learn. It’s often how they show their learning, too. When kids have written expression disorder, it can impact them throughout the school day.
One way schools and teachers can help is with classroom accommodations in an or . These adjustments can remove some of the barriers to learning that kids with writing challenges face.
Here are some common accommodations teachers can use. You can also download and print a list of these accommodations.
Classroom accommodations for written expression disorderPDF - 143.2 KB
Classroom materials and environment
Highlight key words and phrases in writing assignments and prompts.
Provide graphic organizers and checklists.
Post strategies, graphic organizers, and checklists in the classroom.
Develop individualized spelling lists every week based on students’ needs.
Have students keep a personal dictionary of challenging words and frequently used vocabulary.
Provide easy access to writing tools like pencils, paper, and laptops.
Completing assignments and tests
Give extra time for written assignments and for tests that require writing out answers.
Allow students to use outlining and “semantic mapping” software to make planning easier and to improve vocabulary.
Let students use speech-to-text technology to help with drafting text.
Let students use text-to-speech technology to help with revising and editing.
Allow students to use spellcheck and/or word prediction software.
Have students use drawings with captions, instead of writing whole sentences or texts.
Allow students to show their understanding in different ways, like oral reports and video presentations.
Provide quiet and comfortable spaces for students to work.
Teaching strategies
Help students set specific and challenging writing goals that are doable.
Let students choose meaningful supports for reaching their writing goals.
Reteach writing skills and strategies as needed.
Provide sentence starters that show how to begin a written response.
Provide feedback only on specific aspects of writing, not all aspects. Only give feedback on the most critical assignments.
More resources
Some kids also struggle with handwriting, typing, and spelling. Difficulty with these skills is called dysgraphia.
Educators: Learn more about written expression disorder.
Families: Do you think your child may need accommodations? Get tips for talking to teachers about writing challenges.
