composing written material（written material composing）.doc

Chapter 6 – Assistive Technology for the Composition of Written Material Introduction 1 Using the SETT Process 2 Decision Making Guide 3 Decision Making Guide Expanded 4 Continuum 7 Continuum Expanded 8 Web Resources 12 Product Resources 13 Assistive Technology for the Composition of Written Material Kim Swenson, Mary Wirkus, Marcia Obukowitz Introduction Writing is a complex process that involves both the physical mechanics of handwriting and the cognitive component of organizing, creating or composing written material. This chapter focuses on tools that may assist students who struggle with writing composition. “Composition is the plan, placement, or arrangements of the elements.” () Composition of writing involves the ability of the student to express ideas in a way that is meaningful to others. Standards for the development of literacy suggest that good writing necessitates a linear path to the end product. A student is required to learn a concept or series of concepts, to organize that information into a linear form, and then compose the ideas in a meaningful way which creates a presentation that express ideas surrounding a specific topic. A common concern expressed by teachers, parents, and in some cases, the students themselves is “They have good ideas but just cant get them down on paper.” Understanding the writing sequence and adding supports as needed may help students. For others there may be alternate ways to share or present what they know. The following tools may assist students in overcoming or adapting to the writing obstacles they face. Using the SETT process and Decision Making Guide It is intended that you use this as a guide. The Decision Making Guide follows the SETT (Student, Environment, Task, and Tool) format with a subcategory of Sensory Considerations included with Student and Environment. Additional categories include: Narrowing the Focus to help identify a specific task in order to select appropriate a