Instructors for this unit, then, should be prepared to assist other teachers in 'buying in' to a logical agreement of this philosophy. Many students, but especially special needs students, have great difficulty producing any writing under time pressure. Specific assignments should be made at least a day, if not several days, prior to the assignment's deadline. Students should be actively encouraged to do pre-writing activities to prepare for any writing which must be done within a specific time limit. These students should be highly encouraged to master the use of a typewriter or word processor and use it for as many assignments as possible.
Word processors can be especially helpful for students with spelling difficulty.
Some special needs students should be graded primarily on content, not on usage and mechanics. Be alert to gender biases in student writing. Discourage gender stereotyping, either in the students' writing or in topic choices. Encourage boys to express themselves completely. In small departmental groups, teachers brainstorm writing assignments they have given in the past.