How worried should I be about DS's written work?

[Concerned100]

DS has just turned 8 (ie now year 3) and has always struggled with handwriting and spelling. His reading was an issue too, but that seems to have clicked recently. He is otherwise a very articulate, bright and interested boy. There is quite a mismatch between what he says and what he gets on paper! I have up loaded a couple of pics of free writing he has done recently. Any opinions would be great, I don't know if I am worrying too much or not enough!!

My ds is 7 in year 3 and very similar. I will be interested to hear what others think as I am also concerned although end of year 2 his writing was 2b (well that was what was on his report).

Hi -

Retired TA here - it isn't very far into the term, so he will make a lot of progress during Yr3 and I shouldn't worry too much yet.

To help things along, you might find the Oxford Phonics Spelling Dictionary worth investing in. It is under £7 at Amazon, and easy for children to use on their own, or with adult support. You can see sample pages from it HERE:

If it's the handwriting that holds him back, could he type stuff on the computer? I used to type to less able Yr2 boys' dictation, and they could produce vastly more than they would have done writing it themselves. Also, you might be able to find a set of 'word cards', which he could arrange to make sentences.

DS's handwriting is absolutely appalling! He is now 9, and it's worse than it was at 7.

Luckily, his school allow him to use a computer to do written work, which has mad a huge difference.

Thanks Ferguson, that looks like a useful dictionary. Will get it.