Are you looking for ways to teach students to copy content? If so, keep reading.
1. Select a peer to assist the student in copying the content (e.g., read the content aloud as the student copies it, copy the content for the student, etc.).
2. Get the student to ask for help when they need it.
3. Give the student the appropriate learning materials to finish tasks (e.g., pencil with eraser, paper, dictionary, handwriting sample, etc.). Make sure that the student has only the appropriate learning materials on the desk.
4. Provide a consistent format from which the student copies.
5. Get the student to read their written work out loud when proofing.
6. Create an environmental setting for the classroom that promotes optimal individual performance (e.g., quiet room, background music, fresh air, etc.).
7. Get the student to question any directions, explanations, or instructions they do not understand.
8. Put the content from which the student is to copy at a distance to him/her. As the student shows success, slowly move the content closer to the student.
9. Get the student to work on the task at another time (e.g., later in the day, during lunch, etc.) when they should be able to concentrate better.
10. Praise the student for copying letters, words, sentences, and numbers from a model at a close proximity: (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., praise, handshake, smile, etc.).
11. Assist the student in completing writing tasks so they will not have to hurry.
12. Spotlight the content the student is to copy.
13. Widen the print from which the student is copying.
14. Select a peer to proofread all the student’s work before it is submitted.
15. Find any particular letters or numbers the student has difficulty copying and have them practice copying those letters or numbers.
16. Get the student’s vision reviewed if it has not been recently reviewed.
17. Boost supervision (e.g., by teacher, peer, paraprofessional, etc.) of the student while they are performing tasks that require copying.
18. Train the student to list five attributes of a peer who produces neat work. Get them to select one of those attributes to work on each week for five weeks.
19. Get the student to practice writing letters, words, and sentences by tracing over a sequence of dots.
20. Provide consistent expectations for the student to finish a task neatly and accurately.
21. 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
