Are you looking for ways to help kids who reverse letters and numbers while writing? If so, keep reading.
1. Get the student to keep a card with the word bed at their desk to help remember the correct form of b and d in a word they understand.
2. Get the student to keep a list of the most commonly used words that contain letters they reverse. This list can be used as a reference when the student is writing.
3. After identifying those letters and numbers the student reverses, have them highlight or underline those letters and numbers found in a magazine, newspaper, etc.
4. Spotlight the subtle differences between letters and numbers that the student reverses. Get the student to scan five typewritten lines containing only the letters or numbers that are confusing. Get the student to circle the “n’s and the “h’s with various colors.
5. Cursive handwriting may prevent reversals and may be used by some students as an alternative to manuscript.
6. Acknowledge quality work (e.g., display the student’s work, congratulate the student, etc.).
7. Give the student a number line and alphabet strip on their desk to use as a reference to make the correct forms of letters and numbers.
8. Minimize the emphasis on competition. Competitive learning activities may cause the student to hurry and reverse numbers and letters when writing.
9. Get the student to take part in writing learning activities designed to cause the student to want to be successful in writing (e.g., writing a letter to a friend, rock star, famous athlete, etc.).
10. Praise the student for making letters and numbers correctly when writing: (a) give the student a concrete reward (e.g., privileges such as leading the line, handing out learning materials, 10 minutes of free time, etc.) or (b) give the student an informal reward (e.g., smile, handshake, praise, etc.).
11. Get the student to practice writing letters, words, and sentences by tracing over a sequence of dots.
12. Make the student proofread all written work. Praise the student for each correction made.
13. Consider using one of the apps on one of our best writing apps lists:
The Tech Edvocate’s List of 31 Grammar & Writing Apps, Tools & Resources
Ten Apps to Help Learners Develop Writing Skills
10 of the Best Grammar and Writing Apps for Elementary School Learners
11 of the Best Grammar and Writing Apps for High School Learners
10 of the Best Grammar and Writing Apps for Middle School Learners
