When you create an assignment or test, a module called 'Writing space' is automatically added. This is the student's working document where they can write and format their text. In this article, we explain how the writing space works and how it can be used, including the customizations and assistive technology offered in the writing space.
If you do not make any changes to the writing space, the student will be met with a blank document when they open the assignment. If necessary, you can format the writing space in advance, for example by adding support headings, tables for a lab report, or similar. This way, the student has a good foundation to start from when beginning their assignment.
Quick facts about the writing space
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After submission, the student's writing space is converted to a Google Docs file stored in your Google Drive. A quick access button to the folder with all student submissions is located at the top of the assignment.
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You can choose the background color of the writing space based on the students' preferences. Some prefer a colored background to avoid black text on a white background.
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In the assignment settings, you can enable assistive technology such as text-to-speech, speech-to-text, and spell check.
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You can also format the writing space in advance, for example with support headings or tables, to provide students with a solid starting point.
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The student can format their text with color, text size, dyslexia-friendly fonts, etc. They can also use special characters.
Rename and format the students' writing space before the assignment starts
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The writing space that is automatically added when the assignment is created is always named the same as the assignment. Click the pencil icon on the right to rename the writing space if desired.
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To format the writing space for students, click the pencil icon on the right again. Click the settings icon that looks like a gear, and check "Use a custom template". You can now edit the student's writing space.
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Remember to click "Save" when you have finished editing.
Limit the number of allowed words in the student's writing space
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To set a word limit, go to the writing space settings by clicking the pencil icon and then the gear icon. There you will find a field where you can set an upper word limit, for example, 1500.
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If the student exceeds the upper word limit, they will receive a warning notifying them that they have exceeded the maximum allowed words.
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Remember to click "Save" when you have finished editing.
Tips for better understanding the writing space!
Are you unsure how the writing space works? We recommend creating an assignment in Trelson with the security client 'Unsafe Mode' and adding yourself as a student. Give yourself customizations such as background color, text-to-speech, and spell check. Then log in to Trelson as a student and enter the assignment. This way, you can experience how the writing space works for the students.