iSlate is a fun way for Australian students to practice their handwriting using an iPad. The app can display practice writing on paper or using an onscreen chalk slate. Print fonts have been updated to include an option to display stroke order.
Each Australian state uses different print and cursive fonts. iSlate caters for this at set up. When a student starts using the app, they select their home state: iSlate prepares the handwriting practice samples using the print or cursive font for the chosen state. With iSlate supporting for up to ten students, seperate states can be chosen for each one. This is ideal if a student is attending school away in a different state.
iSlate is progressive so it can be used by students to assist with pre-writing skills then move through each year level to the end of Year 6. In the Practice section, iSlate offers students practice in four areas:
- Pre-print: students practice their pre-writing skills using straight/curved lines
- Print Letters: introduces students to print-based text
- Pre-Cursive: allows students to practice writing with letters using joins
- Cursive Joins: introduces joined letters
In the Copy Book section, students can practice from writing based on their school year:
P-1: Using early years paper, students practice print-based writing
Yr2: Changes the paper and introduces students to letters with tails and entries
Yr3-4: Formal joins are introduced and the red lines of junior paper removed
Yr5-6: Complete formal writing on blue-lined paper
Students can practice their handwriting using a stylus to practice their daily handwriting. iSlate makes use of Apple Pencil on iPad models supporting this. Students can also use their finger to practice writing.