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Allow Text-to-Speech Software for Writing

Tags

ELA: Writing Study Skills & Tools MS/HS/College Strategy

Skills

Fine Motor Skills

Allow Text-to-Speech Software for Writing

If your student has a language-based disability but you want to encourage them to write independently

How To Apply It!

  1. Speech synthesizers can read text aloud to you, including as you type, and can help you recognize when you make a spelling or grammar mistake.
  2. Start by discussing with a teacher or learning specialist to agree upon when and how you should use these tools rather than reading or writing independently. They can be extremely helpful but you don't want to become too dependent on them.
  3. While reading, if you come across a sentence or portion of a text that you are having difficulty with, select the section to be read aloud to you. Try to follow along with the text as you hear it and go back and read it on your own.
  4. When writing, have the synthesizer read your work back to you. Ask yourself, "If I hadn't been the one who wrote this, is there anything in it that I would not understand?" Go back and revise and listen again.
  5. Electronic speaking tools are small and lightweight, but they can be expensive. Work with your parents to investigate which is the one best-suited for your needs, especially if you also have auditory processing.

Why It Works (the Science Of Learning)!

While all students must learn to read fluently, high-end text-to-speech software can help students with learning differences develop these skills by enabling them to read along with the voice-over. As students are developing their reading fluency skills, adults will want to continue to develop a student's writing skills. When students hear their work read aloud, they can find mistakes that they might not realize by reading alone. For some students, software might be a good substitute if they are uncertain about their own reading skills.