Composing Written Material
The writing process is a complex method of reproducing and evaluating students' thoughts and ideas. It is important for every student to have a successful way to put their thoughts on paper, but this involves organizing, synthesizing, writing, and proofreading. These tools help to make the composition of written material a success for students with disabilities. Click on product images for direct links to product sites.
Low-Tech Tools:
Portable Desk
A portable desk can be a useful tool for students who are uncomfortable using or unable to use traditional desk seating to compose written material. Using a portable desk, students can write while in a useful, comfortable position. Portable desks are available at various home supply stores for varied prices. |
Writing Templates Writing templates help students who struggle with organizing and planning their writing, as well as including all necessary topics in their writing. These papers help students to make sure they produce a complete story, paragraph, or report. Writing templates can be found online at various sites. Pictured template is available from PreK-8, a site that offers numerous free printables. |
Mid-Tech Tools:
Franklin Speller This hand-held device can help to relieve some of the frustration struggling students experience looking up spelling, definitions, and cursive characters. It is available at various levels, and therefore can help students from K-12. The Speller is available from Franklin Electronic Publishers for $29.99 and up. |
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Neo 2 Portable Keyboard
This electronic device offers students a portable way to type, edit, and save their writing before transferring their material to a computer. Also, the simplicity of this device allows the student to focus on the task at his or her desk with minimal distraction. This product is available from Neo Direct for $169. |
IRIS Pen The Iris Pen offers struggling students a way to transfer their notes to the computer, saving them the time of retyping and reorganizing their thoughts by producing editable written material on the screen. The IRIS Pen is available from I.R.I.S. for $99 and up. |
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High-Tech Tools:
Kidspiration
This is a software program features cross-curricular activities that help students with a variety of challenges. For writing, this program offers great organization tactics by connecting students' thoughts and pictures. Students build confidence as they use this program to visualize, plan, and organize their writing. Kidsiration is for students in K-5. It is available through Inspiration Software, Inc., for $59 and up. |
DraftBuilder
This software program is for students who struggle with planning, organizing, and producing writing material. By taking users through a step-by-step writing process, the program encourages students to carefully plan their papers and then work toward a final product. DraftBuilder is available from Don Johnston for $139. |
Write:OutLoud Write:OutLoud is a speaking word processing program that helps students build their writing skills. Students can hear their writing out loud to evaluate the material, and to make sure it says what they want to say. The program offers spell checking and grammar support. This program is available from Don Johnston for $84 and up. |