For some of the practice problems in my classes, I have to draw graphs or plot points by hand, a task that can be difficult as a person with low vision and dysgraphia. While there are lots of ways to draw graphs in a digital format, I received a request for ideas on using no-tech solutions for drawing graphs with low vision and dysgraphia, as educators look for tools to help decrease screen time for students who are already at a higher risk of eye fatigue. Here are some of my favorite no-tech solutions for drawing graphs with low vision and dysgraphia that I use for my classes and that are suitable for students of all ages.
What is dysgraphia?
For those who are not familiar with it, dysgraphia is a type of learning disability characterized by illegible handwriting that frequently co-exists with low vision and visual impairment. Some other signs include uneven letter sizes, awkward pencil grip, incomplete letters, and for some, trouble with drawing lines and shapes. Dysgraphia cannot be cured, but occupational therapy services and other handwriting programs can help tremendously with improving handwriting and coordination.
Related links
- Dysgraphia Accommodations In The Classroom
- AlphaSmart For Low Vision and Dysgraphia
- Tips For Writing Letters To Visually Impaired Recipients
Whiteboard or other erasable surfaces with dark markers
One of my favorite ways to draw graphs is by using a dark-colored dry erase marker on a small whiteboard since it is easy for me to erase mistakes. In addition, I find it easier to hold a large marker compared to a thin pencil and I can easily adjust the board so it feels more natural to write on.
Don’t have a whiteboard? No problem! Other whiteboard/dry-erase surface alternatives include:
- Piece of white paper in a plastic sheet cover
- Window with white paper behind it
- Surface with contact paper on top
Related links
Drawing graphs and plotting points with magnetic drawing boards
I have a small magnetic drawing board called a Magnatab that uses magnets and a magnetic pen. As the pen is moved across the board, the magnetic dots become raised, making it a great tool to create lines, basic drawings, and even practice writing Braille. While the board is not optimized for reading Braille or creating tactile images since the dots can sink down easily, it is great for drawing graphs or plotting points, as it is easy to feel where the dots are and users can push down on the dots to erase them. I also like that I can use a dry erase marker on the surface and that I can trace lines as needed.
Related links
Sticking thumbtacks on a corkboard
One of my professors had me practice viewing different charts and graphs by adding thumbtacks to a corkboard, which allowed me to easily see/feel where the curve of the graph was and other important information. In return, I would demonstrate how to plot points by sticking thumbtacks on a smaller corkboard, which was actually a cork hot pad from Ikea. It worked out very well, though was a bit more time consuming than the other methods.
Using masking tape on a dark surface
For students who need basic accessible graphics, a music stand or similar dark surface can serve as the perfect backdrop for making simple accessible graphs or graphics with masking tape or painter’s tape. While this works best for graphs that involve straight lines such as linear graphs or bar charts, users can easily personalize their creations by coloring the tape with markers or adding text-based labels as needed.
Related links
- Ways To Use Music Stands As Assistive Technology
- Choosing High Contrast Color Schemes For Low Vision
Writing on cardstock with permanent markers
If I have to draw a graph on paper, I prefer to use cardstock whenever possible so that my beloved Sharpie pens do not bleed through the paper or onto my desk. I ordered a package of 8.5″ x 11″ cardstock on Amazon, and love using it for writing and drawing as I can easily hold the page close to my face and don’t have to worry about it shifting on my desk as much while I’m writing.
Related links
Building with Legos or other plastic bricks
Legos are a fun way to create tactile graphs and plot points, as users can feel like they are building something fun while working on their homework. My favorite types of charts to create with Legos or similar plastic bricks are bar charts because it is easier to visualize the size of the bars with the larger stacks of Lego bricks. Users can also use rounded or curved pieces to show points on a chart or parabolas/curved lines on a graph.
Submitting alternative graphs/charts
Just like I would with traditional hand-drawn charts or graphs, I scan in images of my alternative graphs using the free Microsoft Office Lens app or the 3D scanner built into my HP Sprout computer, as I have found these options work the best for inserting images into my assignments. I typically include a note to my professor telling them which materials I used for each graph/chart, and have never had a problem with submitting these alternative images since I already receive accommodations from the Disability Services office for low vision and dysgraphia.
Related links
- Why Every Student Needs Microsoft Office Lens
- How I Use The HP Sprout To Improve My Handwriting
- How I Use The HP Sprout To Improve My Handwriting
- Common Classroom Accommodations For Low Vision
Final thoughts
While drawing graphs and creating charts can be a challenge for people with low vision and/or dysgraphia, there are lots of no-tech solutions for creating beautiful images that can easily be understood. I hope that this post on no-tech solutions for drawing graphs with low vision and dysgraphia is helpful for others as well!
