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

License

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Ed Guide Copyright © 2022 by Jordan Shurr is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted.

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