---
title: Classroom accommodations for dysgraphia
description: What types of accommodations can help students with dysgraphia? Here are dysgraphia accommodations teachers can give in the classroom.
slug: at-a-glance-classroom-accommodations-for-dysgraphia
author: Amanda Morin
reviewer: Whitney Hollins
published: '2019-09-13T19:10:36.483Z'
thumbnail: https://cdn-images.understood.org/p0qf7j048i0q/6UM0DTikFfdNvAu5jym5x9/c7ab7310b07ff8613ec0232135d5d9c9/G1155346217.jpg
source_url: https://www.understood.org/en/articles/at-a-glance-classroom-accommodations-for-dysgraphia
lang: en
---

# Classroom accommodations for dysgraphia

Students with [dysgraphia](https://www.understood.org/en/articles/understanding-dysgraphia) can have trouble with handwriting, typing, and spelling. What classroom accommodations can help? Here are some ways teachers can make all aspects of writing easier.

## Classroom materials and routines

- Provide [pencil grips](https://www.understood.org/en/articles/pencil-grips-occupational-therapy) or different types of pens or pencils to see what works best for the student.
- Provide handouts so there’s less to copy from the board.
- Provide typed copies of classroom notes or lesson outlines to help the student take notes.
- Provide extra time to take notes and copy material.
- Allow the student to use an audio recorder or a laptop in class. 
- Provide paper with different-colored or raised lines to help form letters in the right space.
- Provide graph paper (or lined paper to be used sideways) to help line up math problems.

## Giving instructions 

- Provide paper assignments with name, date, title, etc., already filled in.
- Provide information needed to start writing assignments early.
- Help the student [break writing assignments into steps](https://www.understood.org/en/articles/how-to-help-your-child-break-up-a-writing-assignment-into-chunks).
- Provide a rubric and explain how each step is graded.
- Give examples of finished assignments.
- Offer alternatives to written responses, like giving an oral report.

## Completing tests and assignments

- Adapt test formats to cut down on handwriting. For example, use “circle the answer” or “fill in the blank” questions.
- Grade based on what the student knows, not on handwriting or spelling.
- Use a scribe or [speech-to-text](https://www.understood.org/en/articles/dictation-speech-to-text-technology) so the student can dictate test answers and writing assignments.
- Let the student choose to either print or use cursive for handwritten responses.
- Allow a “proofreader” to look for errors. 
- Provide extended time on tests.
- Provide a quiet room for tests if needed.

## What’s next

Do you have a student who struggles with writing? Find out [how dysgraphia and disorder of written expression differ from each other](https://www.understood.org/en/articles/is-dysgraphia-the-same-thing-as-disorder-of-written-expression).

Does your child struggle with handwriting? Explore fun, effective [expert tips](https://www.understood.org/en/articles/8-expert-tips-on-helping-your-child-with-dysgraphia) to practice at home.

---

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