The student is asked to write the sentences dictated by the teacher, by choosing picture symbols from an array and arranging them on the sentence board. The materials needed to perform the instructions should NOT be present during the writing test. An example of a trial of the writing test is presented below. Teacher presents an array of symbols and a sentence board. Student writes by choosing symbols and placing them on the sentence board.
Teacher praises attempts to write as well as correct writing.
Additional reinforcement can be used if this is typically needed with the student, or if the student is experiencing a lot of stress. Teacher marks the data sheet giving credit for each correct symbol the student chooses, and for putting words in the correct order. Teacher then presents a new array and moves on to the next sentence. The procedures for teaching the student to write have both a writing and a comprehension component. The same words are used in the Reading Curriculum, so the two curricula complement each other nicely, with the comprehension phase of the Writing Curriculum allowing the student to see models of the instructions they will be reading in the Reading Curriuclum.