How To Adapt The Writing Framework To Support Children With Dyslexia

Writing is one of the most powerful tools that children learn, allowing them to record information, share their thoughts, and communicate with the wider world. However, while it can become second nature for many students, for those with dyslexia, learning to write can be a steep and frustrating process.

Whether it’s forming letters, spelling, or organising words, writing with dyslexia can be tough. Thankfully, with the right support and tools, you can transform the learning process for students. The Writing Framework from the Department for Education is aimed at empowering students and schools alike, and in this latest article, we explore how you can tailor it to better suit children with dyslexia.

What is the Writing Framework? Before we take a look at how you can adapt the Writing Framework to better suit children with dyslexia, it’s first important to understand exactly what it is. Published by the Department for Education in July, it offers evidence-based, practical guidance to primary schools across the UK.

Its core purpose is to create a common approach to teaching writing. The framework consolidates expert knowledge, classroom observations and research into a structured approach to teaching writing to help schools deliver more effective lessons in handwriting, spelling and composition.

The latest guidance was inspired by the Reading Framework and highlights that writing is a complex learning process that should start being taught in reception. It also provides a range of clear steps to teaching children from reception through to Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2.

How to adapt the Writing Framework for children with dyslexia

While the 2025 Writing Framework is designed for all learners, children with dyslexia often require certain adaptations to ensure it is truly effective and accessible for all. Dyslexia often makes transcription, spelling, and organisation more challenging, so children may tire more easily or feel less confident.

By adjusting how the Framework is used, teachers and parents can create an environment where these pupils not only learn the mechanics of writing but also begin to enjoy expressing themselves on paper.

Prioritising transcription with extra support

Transcription (handwriting and spelling) is at the heart of the Writing Framework as it is the foundation of fluent writing. This can be a significant challenge for children with dyslexia, so handwriting practice should be modelled clearly and carried out in short, frequent sessions. This will help to ensure children do not become overwhelmed and can better focus on their writing technique. Utilising tools such as pencil grips, writing slopes, or tinted, wide-lined paper can also make a noticeable difference by improving comfort and legibility.

Spelling should be taught explicitly and systematically, using multi-sensory techniques like tracing words, clapping out syllables, or colour-coding difficult letters. Also, instead of relying purely on

memorisation, children should be encouraged to explore morphology and learning how prefixes, suffixes and root words work together to build meaning.

Harness oral composition before writing

Dyslexic learners often struggle to keep ideas in mind while also managing handwriting and spelling. Oral composition provides a way to bridge this gap, and by encouraging children to say sentences aloud allows them to focus on their creativity before tackling the mechanics of writing. Utilising recording software or speech to text tools can help support children in this endeavour.

Focus on quality over quantity

The Writing Framework also places an emphasis on quality over quantity, a principle that is vital for dyslexic children. Expecting a long piece of writing too early can lead to fatigue and frustration, so instead opting to have students write shorter, carefully constructed sentences will allow them to demonstrate progress without being overwhelmed.

Over time, the amount of writing can be increased gradually; however, make sure to celebrate small improvements along the way, such as neater handwriting, a correct spelling attempt, or a single well-formed sentence. It is these moments that help to build self-belief and encourage persistence in their writing.

Support vocabulary growth

Vocabulary knowledge underpins successful writing, and for dyslexic learners, it is particularly helpful when introduced in engaging, multi-sensory ways. Story maps, visual prompts and concrete objects can all help to anchor new words in a student’s memory, while repetition through retelling a story or describing a science activity further reinforces their understanding.

Morphology also supports vocabulary growth, as learning the meaning of roots and affixes not only aids comprehension but also strengthens spelling. This structured approach helps children unlock the logic of language rather than feeling lost in its irregularities.

Breaking down the writing process

The Writing Framework identifies writing as a process that involves planning, drafting, revising, editing and sharing, and for dyslexic learners, this process should be broken down further into smaller, more manageable stages.

When writing, have students focus on just one or two sentences at a time, utilising techniques such as sentence frames and word banks to help elevate their learning. When it comes to revision and editing, work closely with the student to help them learn how to refine their ideas without becoming discouraged.

Early and ongoing intervention

Finally, the new Writing Framework also stresses the importance of identifying pupils who need additional support as early as possible. The sooner a child is able to receive extra support to help them with their learning and writing comprehension, the better their knowledge and fine motor skills will be.

Looking to make your classroom more dyslexia friendly?

When it comes to helping your child or class improve their writing and literacy skills, the Writing Framework offers clear guidance to help teachers and parents alike. Following these insights and adapting your approach for children with dyslexia will only further enhance inclusivity.

Here at The Dyslexia Shop, our mission is to help students with dyslexia by providing essential tools and resources designed to complement their educational journey. From tinted exercise books to writing aids and assistive tools, we have everything you need to kick-start the new school year and set students up for success.