Really good at oral questions but struggles with writing

[elliejjtiny]

My ds3 is in year 8, on the waiting list for autism and adhd assessment. Parents evening was yesterday and a common theme was that if asked a question in class he knows the answer but when asked to write things down he really struggles, especially in English. He says the English teacher writes too fast for him to write what she has written. He does have a tendency to daydream and doodle, especially in subjects he isn't keen on.

Forgot to add, is there anything I can do to help him. I struggled with undiagnosed SEN at school and I really don't want him to suffer like I did.

My child sound similar he’s tried talk to text and he’s learning to touch type so that he can use a chrome book during lessons to take notes etc. it might be worth speaking to the schools SENCO to see if there is anything similar that they can put in place for him.

Mine was exactly the same (also has ADHD and dyslexic). Learning to touch type and using an iPad with keyboard case for all lessons has massively turned things around. (iPad is lighter weight, smaller and has the photo function for graphs, pics of the board etc).

She has a laptop for all exams as part of access arrangements.

@elliejjtiny I appreciate your DS is on the waiting list for ASD / ADHD assessment, but could you seek an Educational Psychologist assessment in the meantime? (privately)
The EP would advise on strengths and weaknesses, and make recommendations for access arrangements / accommodations for your DS like using a laptop, etc.