Scribing is an accommodation in which another person records a student’s communicated response. It may be appropriate when handwriting, motor, spelling, fatigue or another disability-related barrier prevents the student from showing what they know.
Quick answer
Is scribing the same as helping with the answer?
No. The student supplies the ideas and response. The scribe records them according to the agreed protocol without improving the reasoning, vocabulary or organization unless the task and IEP explicitly permit prompting or editing.
What scribing can look like
- The student speaks while an adult records the response.
- The student indicates letters, words or choices using an agreed communication method.
- The scribe reads back the response so the student can confirm or direct permitted changes.
- The accommodation is used only for tasks or subjects identified in the IEP.
What the IEP should clarify
- Why scribing is needed and which barrier it addresses
- Where and when it applies
- Whether the student may review and correct the transcription
- How independence and assistive technology will be developed
- How staff will ensure the accommodation does not change what the task measures
Scribing and speech-to-text
Speech-to-text may offer greater independence for some students, but it is not automatically equivalent. Consider accuracy, privacy, background noise, editing demands and the student’s ability to use the tool. The team should choose the least intrusive support that provides genuine access.
Official sources
Confirm current procedures with the school and use the latest Ontario or YCDSB documents when a formal decision is involved.
Related parent guides
Last reviewed: July 20, 2026. Independent parent information, not legal advice or an official YCDSB publication.