Cursive Comeback?
2/9/2020
According to William Klemm, senior professor of neuroscience at Texas A&M University, “Handwriting (cursive writing) dynamically engages widespread areas of both cerebral hemispheres.” These studies lead to the idea that the brain is growing and stretching more during cursive instruction, as more parts of the brain are being stimulated.
Results of a study by the University of Washington show that while learning to print and type also contribute to brain growth, instruction in cursive appears to produce the greatest neurological benefit. Mental engagement Handwriting in general requires focused attention on not only the structure of each letter, but how to transfer that knowledge into a physical representation on paper. As with most things, students learn and retain information better as they physically re-create it. Kinesthetic benefits Fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination are required as students write in cursive, building important muscle memory. These honed skills transfer over to other areas of a child's life, such as sports or playing music. Visual and tactile processing skills are also being strengthened with students write in cursive. Benefits for students with learning disabilities A 2012 review suggests that cursive may be particularly effective for individuals with certain neurological disorders. Cursive helps students with dyslexia by stimulating both sides of the brain. Students with dysgraphia. may find the connected letters and fluid writing motions of cursive writing help in aiding their motor control challenges during writing. At PNA we utilize the handwriting curriculum Handwriting Without Tears, beginning with print in preschool and beginning cursive in 2nd grade. Every year, without fail, the second graders are eager and excited to learn cursive. They take it very seriously, intently working with grit and overcoming frustration as they practice. While they see it as a rite of passage in "being the big kids", we recognize the benefits of cursive instruction and take the time to carve out a spot for it in our busy academic days. Comments are closed.
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Marcella HitchcockMs. Hitchcock teaches second grade, is a mom of two, an avid reader, lifelong learner, and a seeker of sunshine! Archives
March 2021
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