1. Students with Learning Disabilities Written Communication: Handwriting, Spelling, and Written Expression

2. Handwriting Problems Instruction in handwriting improves written expression skills There are many handwriting problems including slowness, too much or too little slant, and mirror handwriting

3. Assessment of Handwriting Skills Few standardized tests to measure handwriting Informal Assessment Techniques –Close visual examination of student’s handwriting noting problem areas or error patterns

4. Teaching Handwriting Skills Readiness Skills Manuscript Writing Transitional Writing Cursive Writing

5. Development of Spelling Skills Precommunicative spelling Semiphonetic Spelling Phonetic Spelling Transitional Spelling Correct Spelling

6. Assessment of Spelling Skills Standardized and Criterion-Referenced Tests Informal Assessment Techniques –Dictated spelling test –Informal spelling inventory –Curriculum-based measurement –Spelling error analysis –Cloze procedure –Probes

7. Teaching Spelling Skills Rule-Based Instruction Multisensory Approach Test-Study-Test Technique –Study strategies Fixed and Flow Word Lists Additional Considerations

8. Written Expression Skills One of highest forms of communication Typically not acquired until person has extensive experience with reading, spelling, and verbal expression Problems may not be diagnosed until upper elementary years

9. Assessment of Written Expression Skills Standardized and Criterion-Referenced Tests Informal Assessment Techniques –Fluency –Syntax –Vocabulary –Structure –Content –Profile of Component

10. Assessment of Written Expression Skills continued –Curriculum-based measurement –Portfolio assessment

11. Teaching Written Expression Skills Creative and functional writing Shift from product of writing to the process involved in creating that product Three basic steps: –Planning, writing, and revising Teacher should promote a positive attitude to motivate student to write

12. Written Expression Strategies PENS PLEASE COPS TOWER HOW