| Instructional Strategies and Task Modification | No and Low Tech AT | Mid-High Tech AT | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Handwriting | Instructional Strategies: Tracing exercise Talk through letter formation Dot-to-dot Multi-modality instruction Chalkboard practice Task Modifications: Adapt tests to fill-in-the-blank, multiple choice, or T/F Provide additional time Shorten assignments Photo copy notes Also: Try different writing tools, change paper position, check student position: feet/pelvis/trunk and arm/hand. Avoid using short pencils. Use cross-age tutor, use peer support, provide typing/keyboard instruction. Provide instruction on use of specific AT device. | Pencil holders/grips Large/primary pencils Large crayons/markers Different kind/color paper Different line spacing/color Acetate sheets with markers Light pen Tape paper to desk Clipboard to hold paper Stencils/templates Rubber name stamp, other rubber stamps Magnetic board/letters Slant board/easel Wrist rest/support Arm stabilizer/arm guide | Typewriter/word processor with correction, with custom key guard Portable word processor that interfaces with computer Computer with spell check Computer with alternative input (e.g., on screen keyboard, switch interface, expanded or mini keyboard) Voice activation software |
| Reading | Instructional Strategies: Use story frame Use before, during, after Echo reading Story mapping Multi-modality teaching Structured study guides Task Modifications: Highlight key concepts Extra time for completion Shorten assignments Simplify text Use chapter outlines Also: Use peer support, cross-age tutoring, information organizer, study carrel, provide tactile letters/words. Provide instruction on use of AT devices. | Page magnifiers Magnifying bars Colored acetate Word window Flash cards Letter and word cards Sentence cards Highlighter Post-it tape flags Color-keyed paper clips to mark pages/paragraphs | Tape recorder to record reading assignments Books on tape Language master Speaking Language Master Word Master Electronic dictionary Computer with voice output and talking word processing software |
| Math | Instructional Strategies: Use number lines Use mnemonic devices Use “two finger” counting aides Use color coding strategies (e.g. green marker to start/red to stop) Use multi-modality approach Use computational aids Task Modifications: Reduce the number of problems Eliminate the need to copy problems Enlarge worksheets Avoid mixing “signs” on a page Reduce number of problems on page Allow more time Also: Use peer support, use cross-age tutoring. Provide instruction on use of AT devices. | Abacus Counters: spools, buttons, etc. Containers for counters Manipulatives Flash cards Automatic number stamp Magnetic numbers on metal tray Personal chalkboard/dry erase board Raised or enlarged number line Number facts charts | Hand held calculator Calculator with printout Talking calculator Language Master + Math Tape recorder with counting, basic facts, multiplication tables, combinations, formulas |
| Written Expression | Instructional Strategies: Content outlines “Webbing” strategy process Writing strategies Writing/story starters Formulate sentences aloud Task Modifications: Allow extra time Shorten assignment Provide sentence “shells” Provide key words Also: Use peer support, use cross-age tutoring, study carrel. Provide instruction on use of AT devices. | Word cards Sentence cards Pocket dictionary Pocket thesaurus Personal “word” book Word wall | Electronic spell checker Electronic dictionary Electronic thesaurus Word Master Speaking Dictionary Companion or Talking Language Master Computer with spelling and grammar check |
| Daily Organization | Instructional Strategies: Color coding strategies Homework journal Pocket schedule Notebook schedule Schedule on desk Schedule on bulletin board Assignment sheets Appointment book Reminder cards Structured study guides Post signs and label areas in room Also: Use peer support, use cross-age tutor, study carrel. Provide instruction on use of AT device. | Pocket organizer/planner Personal organizer Clipboard Sticky notes Notebook tabs Post-it tape flags Colored paper clips Highlighter Storage cubicles Timer | Electronic memo/schedule master Electronic pocket organizer/planner Taped schedule/assignments Digital diary Computer with calendar/reminder software |