Visual-motor integration
Last updated
Visual-motor integration is the coordination of what the eyes see with how the hands move, as in copying shapes, letters or diagrams.
Topic: Motor and sensory
In plain terms
A student might see a shape correctly and move a pencil well, but struggle to combine the two, so copied letters come out the wrong size or orientation. Visual-motor integration affects handwriting, copying from the board, drawing, puzzles and math layout. It is different from vision itself, which an eye doctor checks.
How it shows up in an IEP
Goals target school tasks like copying sentences legibly, aligning numbers in columns or forming letters correctly on lines. Work samples and rubrics capture progress.
Example
A third grader copies spelling words from the board with frequent errors. With a near-point copy on the desk and practice, the student copies 10 words with correct letters and spacing.
Related terms
- Visual perceptionVisual perception is the brain's ability to make sense of what the eyes see, such as telling shapes apart, finding items and judging space.
- Fine motor skillsFine motor skills are the small, precise movements of the hands and fingers used for tasks like writing, cutting, buttoning and using utensils.
- Occupational therapy (school-based)School-based occupational therapy helps students take part in school tasks, such as handwriting, using tools, self-care and managing sensory needs.
- DysgraphiaDysgraphia is a learning difficulty with writing that can affect handwriting, spelling and putting thoughts into written words.
On IEP Atlas
- Visual-Motor & Visual-Perceptual Skills IEP goals
- Handwriting IEP goals
- Visual-motor and perceptual IEP goals
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