PERCEPTIONS

Symbol writing (pictograph writing symbol) leads to conventional writing.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Research evidence does not exisit demonstrating that writing with symbols is a necessary developmental first step supporting the development of writing skills for students with disabilities. There is also no research evidence indicating that student instruction focused on "writing" with pictographic symbols supports the development of writing with the sounds of one's language.

Typically developing children write hundreds if not thousands of times before becoming conventional writers.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Typically developing children write extensively before becoming conventional writers. Students with complex instructional needs may require even more meaningful opportunities to write.

Spoken communication is needed during writing.

• True

• False

Exposure to the alphabet through meaningful writing opportunities facilitates the acquisition of early literacy.

• True

• False

Students should show prerequisite literacy skills; letter formation, or phonics, before writing instruction begins.

• True

• False

Given meaningful writing opportunities, writing skills may be observed in students before reading skills.

• True

• False

Research has shown that consistent strategy-based instruction helps students make positive gains in writing.

• True

• False

Older students cannot acquire writing skills.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Adults with significant disabilities who are introduced to systematic writing instruction are developing conventional writing skills.

Beginning readers frequently read aloud during silent reading because they have not yet developed their inner voice.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Beginning readers frequently read aloud during sustained silent reading because they have not yet developed their inner voice. Likewise, typically developing students are often communicating and sharing during independent writing time. Students with significant disabilities need accommodations that support them in communication throughout all components of writing.

Conventional writing is not possible for students with significant disabilities.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Many students with disabilities have lifelong fine motor constraints that inhibit the ability to produce legible text with ease. Work on fine motor skills is not a writing curriculum. Fine motor skills do not enable students to learn that writing is a form of communication. Accommodations that support students with ease of access to the alphabet are crucial to developing beginning writing skills.