Cursive writing practice or handwriting practice? It’s a conundrum that teachers often struggle to solve when planning out their lessons. So, what’s more beneficial for your students? The decision to prioritise handwriting or cursive often depends on teaching styles, your goals for your classroom, and specific student needs.
Cursive Writing Practice
Many people suggest that learning to write in cursive is a dying art form, and some may even suggest it is not a necessary skill to learn. At The Exercise Book Company, we strongly disagree, believing that the benefits of learning cursive are intricate and extensive. Cursive writing helps students develop faster writing speeds and can add an aesthetic style to their work.
Writing Speed
Cursive writing is often faster than traditional handwriting because the letters are connected, allowing students to write continuously without lifting the pen. This is particularly beneficial for students during exams, when time is of the essence and that extra minute could be the difference between a higher grade.
Motor Coordination
The fluid, continuous motion of cursive writing encourages improved hand-eye coordination. Cursive writing practice requires students to move their hands with a more natural flow, which can improve overall moto control and writing fluency.
Creativity
Many students enjoy cursive writing for its aesthetic appeal and the overall presentation of their work once they have mastered the skill. The cursive style allows for a more expressive, artistic approach to writing, which can spark creativity and make writing tasks more enjoyable for students.
Handwriting Practice
Handwriting is typically the first writing method introduced to young KS1 learners. During this stage, the focus is on teaching proper letter formation, rather than aesthetic cursive writing practice.
However, even KS2 children can still benefit from thorough handwriting practice before being progressed on to cursive.
Cognitive Engagement
Writing by hand engages multiple areas of the brain, helping students improve memory retention, focus, and attention to detail. Research shows that students who write by hand are better at processing and retaining information compared to those who type.
Legibility
Handwriting practice books focus on ensuring students form letters correctly and maintain consistent spacing. Legible handwriting is key for effective communication, ensuring that student’s work is easily understood by others.
Cursive Writing Practice vs Handwriting Practice
Deciding between teaching handwriting or cursive writing practice can be a challenge for educators. Each has it’s distinct advantages, and the best approach often depends on a number of factors.
Factors to Consider:
- Student Age and Skill Level: For younger students in KS1, traditional handwriting is typically the best place to start. As students progress into KS2, many teachers introduce cursive writing practice to enhance their fluency, speed, and presentation.
- Curriculum and Classroom Goals: Do you want your students to develop neatness and communication, or speed and fluidity? Handwriting practice helps students develop neat, clear writing, while cursive writing practice supports more efficient note-taking.
Invest in Writing Practice for Long-Term Success
Investing time in handwriting and cursive writing practice delivers long-term benefits for students across KS1 and KS2. By engaging in regular writing practice, students not only improve their legibility and writing fluency, but also develop cognitive and motor skills.
At The Exercise Book Company, we offer a wide range of teaching materials, such as KS1 Cursive Handwriting Practice Books, KS2 Cursive Handwriting Practice Books, KS1 Handwriting Books, and KS2 Handwriting Books.
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