43 Tactile Tracing Strategies
Definition
Embedding learning content with physically raised texture to highlight and guide accurate tracing (e.g., letters, numbers, shapes).
In action
Make use of multiple tactile-oriented resources and activities to help increase physical sense of the abstract concept like a letter, number.
Support Strategies
- Assess student baseline skills in tracing prior to determining appropriate supports
- Model the use of tactile tracing strategies when teaching students to write numbers and letters
- Make use of raised text (e.g., glue lines) in early learning of letters and numbers
- Provide multiple options for tracing (e.g., shaving cream and sand writing, marker tracing on pencil). Be sure consider and student sensory sensitivities/ aversions.
- Ensure physical materials (e.g., paper) is appropriate for tactile tracing
- Work on phasing out tactile tracing supports as students gain skills.
Case Study
Student: A Kindergarten student
Content: Students are learning how to write their name
Problem: The student has low vision and is writing the letters incorrectly, despite knowing the correct sounds
Solution: The teacher provides the student with a tactile tracing worksheet containing the letters in their name. After practicing with the traceable material, the student is able to write the letters in their name independently on lined paper.
Additional Resources
- General tips on how to teach handwriting from Edutopia
- Blog post outlining the benefits and considerations in using tactile tracing and other multisensory approaches from Reading Rockets
- Module with information on how to accommodate students with visual impairments in the general classroom from the IRIS Center
