Emergent Writing and Conventional Writing

Writing for students with Significant Disabilities is possible! Writing is a complex skill and it can be a juggling act. Take a look at the diagram below and notice all the skills a writer is using and imagine then being a struggling writer.

Slide taken from Dr. Musselwhite's handout on Emergent Balanced Literacy

From the advice of Dr. Musselwhite, it is recommended that when you are working with an emergent writing that you reduce the number of yellow circles. Pick your top 2 that you would like to focus on work on those two skills.

So What is an Emergent Writer?

An emergent writer is a writer at the very beginning stages of development. You may see this write using symbols, drawing or words. They could be scribbling alphabet letters and practicing forms of writing (ie notes, poems). In this stage the writer is learning the function of writing as well as the form of expressing ones self through print. 

A Conventional Writer:
A conventional writer is one that has mastered writing skills and conforms to the standard rules of grammar, punctuation and language use. They also practice writing with a wide range of genres (personal narratives, persuasive ect.)

How can we help our Emergent Writers (especially those with significant disabilities)?

The first step is time! Your students should be writing everyday

Secondly, Teaching! As the teacher, you need to be modeling- lots and lots. This also includes modeling and supporting topics, ideas, sounding out words and using appropriate tools (alternatives to pencils).

Lastly, include technology. Some students can not hold a pencil so what can they use as an alternative? Big Mac, switch, iPad, eye gaze to letters, Big Keys keyboard... Keep in motivating and accessible for your students

Tips:
In order for students to make progress with learning to write (and read), all students must use the alphabet.

Use CORE vocabulary (ie it, not, and, good, she, he) and CONTENT vocabulary (ie food categories-drinks, desserts; Science categories- animals, farm, zoo). Google Core vocabulary and you will find lists and already made boardmaker pictures with words for students to use.

Give students access to this vocabulary. Having them push a button with a word already given is not authentic and doesn't continue growth.

Besides hand made items check out: Proloquo2Go, Touch Chat with Word Power, LAMP: Words for Life

Well I hope that gave you a little more information of Emergent Writing. I will be back to share more on what it looks like when you are teaching- until next time,