Writing is a complex process.  Generating ideas, organizing those ideas into coherent structure, spelling, conventions, word choice, and fine motor skills are just some of the components involved in writing.  Identifying what parts of the process are difficult will guide assistive technology decisions and provide for greater student success.

Conventions: Punctuation, Spelling, and Grammar

Handheld Spell Checkers

• Franklin

Talking Word Processors

• Premier TWP
• Write:OutLoud
• Mac OS
• Clicker 7

Word Prediction

• Co:Writer

Spelling  and Grammar Checkers

• Gingersoftware
• Co:Writer
• Ghotit

Typing Programs

We are always on the lookout for good typing programs.  Here are a few to try out

• Kids learn2type – good
• Typing Tutor – several programs including one for children involving popping balloons with letters in them
•  Typing Pal – many features
•  Power Typing – keyboard adaptable, games, colorful
• Typer Shark – (go to Play Online) – arcade style
• Peter’s Online Typing Course – claims to be a minimalist approach
• Typing.com – Typing Web is an online typing tutor & keyboarding tutorial
• Dance Mat Typing

Free On-Line Typing Tutors

• Type Racer
• Nitro Type

Motor Aspects of Writing

How does one get content down on paper if handwriting or keyboarding is difficult?

Word Prediction

• CoWriter
• Clicker 7

Word Banks

• WriteOnline
• CoWriter
• Clicker 7

Speech-to-Text

• Mac OS X Mountain Lion features dictation
• Dragon NaturallySpeaking

Portable Word Processors

Alphasmart Neo Forte Fusion

Generating and Organizing Ideas

Graphic Organizer Tools

Inspiration
Kidspiration

Web-based Tools

ReadWriteThink
Bubbl.us 
Popplet

iPad Apps

iBrainStorm 
Inspiration Maps

AT Writing Tools Training Resources

• Clicker presentation documents