Dysgraphia assessment
What is dysgraphia?
Dysgraphia is a specific learning disorder (SLD) in written expression.
Dysgraphia makes writing difficult; children and teenagers with dysgraphia often display troubles with spelling, handwriting, written expression, and clarity and accuracy of writing.
They may also have difficulties with organising letters, words and numbers on a page with appropriate alignment.
Dysgraphia is commonly divided into two subtypes; motor-based and language-based
Motor-based dysgraphia
Children with motor-based dysgraphia experience difficulties with the mechanical aspects of handwriting (such as pencil control, pencil grip, pencil pressure and letter formation) which means they often find writing to be tiring and laborious.
In this case, referral to an Occupational Therapist is often recommended.
Language-based
Language-based dysgraphia refers to difficulties associated with structuring and sequencing ideas in writing.
These difficulties are often due to troubles with processing, whether it be trouble processing what the eyes sees, or trouble making sense of what the ears hear.
Students with language-based dysgraphia are able to verbally express themselves with clarity, but the content of their written work is often below the level expected for their age.
When can a student be assessed for language-based dysgraphia
We suggest that assessment for dysgraphia is appropriate from Year 5 onwards.
Children in their early primary school years require time and support to develop skills associated with good written expression, including;
- Vocabulary development
- Use of correct conventions (spelling, punctuation and grammar)
- Explicit teaching in simple, compound and complex sentences
- Direct instruction in paragraph composition for different purposes (creative or persuasive)
- Understanding the process of writing (planning ideas, drafting, revising and editing)
We receive many requests from students in upper high school and at university to assess and diagnose language-based dysgraphia.
In these cases, we make targeted recommendations for students to work towards improving their written expression skills.
How is dysgraphia diagnosed?
An intellectual (IQ) assessment is an essential component of the dysgraphia testing process to understand an individual student’s personal strengths and struggles, plus rule out other difficulties (such as language disorders, intellectual impairments, or attentional problems).
Our tailored cross-battery of tests and specific knowledge allow us to gain a deeper and more accurate understanding of each individual’s underlying difficulties, which assists our psychologists in making an appropriate diagnosis.
Our dysgraphia assessment process involves the following steps:
- Parent initial consultation – 50 minutes
- Intellectual (IQ) assessment – 90 minutes
- Functional assessment of literacy – 90 minutes
- Results interpretation and report preparation – please allow 3 to 4 weeks following the assessment
- Parent feedback consultation – 50 minutes
To find out more about dysgraphia assessment available near you contact us today.
Graduates
Join our graduate program to get a good start for a brighter future in allied health.
Learn moreThe Early Start Australia promise
Holistic care and treatment plans
Our multi-disciplinary team works together with you to understand your child’s needs. From there, we’ll develop a plan with evidence-based strategies. Work with us to achieve your goals and enjoy a better quality of life.
Australia-wide reach
With clinics in every state and territory, and an experienced team of therapists. Find help when you need it, where you need it.
Registered NDIS provider
We are a registered NDIS provider and are here to help you on your NDIS journey. We provide quality and safe services, follow NDIS requirements, and support your needs and goals.
Early intervention at all stages
Early intervention is not just for young children. We offer therapies that cater to all ages, needs and abilities, and we know the sooner you start your therapy journey, the better your outcomes. With us, you can learn new skills and enjoy more freedom and control in your life.