Spelling Assistance - Word Prediction (WP)

Determine the student's need for spelling support with word prediction.  If you are unclear, a tool called the Word Prediction Screening Tool will be helpful.

Collaborate with Information Technology/Assistive Technology to get word prediction (WP) tools and devices (ex: app/iPad, extension/Chromebook, etc).

Familiarize yourself with the features of the word prediction tool(s).  If needed, ask for training.

Help the student customize their word prediction settings (number of choices, font, topic dictionaries, etc) and then save the setting.

Decide which assignments (those with sufficient composing demands) the student will use word prediction on.

Pre-writing- develop a plan, using graphic organizers as needed, to organize thoughts. 

Model how to substitute simpler words with harder words using spelling strategies paired with word prediction during appropriate assignments.      

Examples of this might sound like:

• “Think of the word you want to spell.”

• “Sound it out quietly.”

• “Try to spell + type the word as best you can.”

• “Choose it from the word list, etc.”

• “Get your ideas out first; then make corrections.”

• “If needed, use text-to-speech to listen for mistakes so you can fix them.”  

Provide guided practice as the student uses word prediction to write with grade appropriate vocabulary.

Once the student has shown a basic level of competency with the tool(s), allow the student to use it independently during instruction on relevant assignments.

Develop a routine for how/where technologies will be distributed and collected.

Set expectations with the student for improving spelling with word prediction.

Monitor and record the student’s progress and satisfaction with the accommodation.

Share progress and effectiveness with the student, the educational team, and the family.