Dysgraphia -
Learning With This Disability
"rong>"Dysgraphia is a learning disability that
affects writing abilities. It can manifest itself as difficulties with
spelling, poor handwriting and trouble putting thoughts on paper" (National
Center for Learning Disabilities [2006], found at
LDOnline.org). Those with dysgraphia usually have an unusual pencil grip,
often with the thumb on top of the fingers. Their writing is slow
and belabored, with unusual starting and ending points. They will usually make spelling
errors and will have difficulty with capitalization and punctuation.
They may also have unusual spatial organization on the page. Their words
may be widely spaced or tightly pushed together. They may also have an issue with
directionality, which is often the reason for spelling errors.
Dysgraphia is usually found in connection with dyslexia,
since both are language-processing issues
and are affected by weaknesses in directionality
and sequencing. Writing, in general, is difficult for those with dysgraphia,
but past the mere mechanics of handwriting. They also have an issue getting their
thoughts down on paper for an essay or a report. They have a difficult time with
proper sequence and organization. This, coupled with the basic handwriting issues,
make this a task that most will avoid at any cost. Certain
accommodations can and should be made.
A few accommodations for those with dysgrahpia would be:
- Encourage students to outline their thoughts. It is important to get their main
ideas down on paper without having to struggle with the details of spelling, punctuation,
etc.
- Have students with dysgraphia dictate their ideas to someone else to type or into
a tape recorder to write down later.
- Being able to use a computer will help them with spelling and handwriting issues
so they can produce work faster and clearer.
- Students should be allowed additional time on writing tasks.
- Students with dysgraphia should be provided an outline for notes so they can just
add the details rather than trying to process the information and copy it down all
at once. That is too difficult for them. They are usually too slow and will fall
behind.
Those with dysgraphia can benefit from handwriting practice and can work with directionality.
Being taught the mechanics of the language in a systematic and sequential
reading program will help them with their spelling, which is a huge hurdle
for them in their writing. Giving them clear, concise organization strategies for
writing papers will be invaluable to them. Dysgraphia, as with any processing disorder,
requires patience and understanding. With time, proven intervention,
and applicable accommodations, those struggling with this challenge
can achieve success.
Learn more about how our software
and direct instruction products can help those with dysgraphia overcome their learning
disability and become a better writer, reader, and speller.