Dysgraphia/dis-GRAF-ee-uh/
A learning difference affecting handwriting, spelling in writing, and organizing thoughts on paper.
Andy says:
The ideas are there, but the "pencil pathway" is bumpy. Tools can smooth the road so your thoughts shine.
Detailed Explanation
Dysgraphia involves fine‑motor control, visual‑motor integration, and language planning for written output.
Signs can include:
- Slow or painful writing; hand cramps
- Inconsistent letter forms and spacing
- Difficulty copying from the board/screen
- Strong oral expression vs. weaker written output
Community Context
Key supports include keyboards, speech-to-text, graphic organizers, and alternative assessments that measure knowledge without penalizing handwriting.
Quick Tips
- Use typing and dictation; reduce copying; provide note templates
- Teach structure explicitly (sentence frames, organizers)
- Separate composing (ideas) from transcription (neatness)
Do / Don't
- Do: assess written tasks separately for ideas and mechanics
- Do: allow multiple output formats
- Don't: grade content through penmanship
Scientific Context
Evidence supports assistive technology, explicit writing frameworks, and OT/educational strategies; handwriting drills alone have limited impact on composition.
Language Notes
Overlaps with dyspraxia and dyslexia; not caused by laziness.
Related Terms
Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder, DCD)
A motor coordination difference affecting planning and execution of movements (fine/gross), handwriting, sequencing, and self‑care tasks.
Accommodations
Changes to the environment, tools, timing, or expectations that remove barriers so a person can participate on an equal basis.
Sources
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