40 years ago, cursive writing was a staple in many school curriculums, with over 90% of students being taught this style of handwriting. However, in recent years, its popularity has declined, with many schools opting to focus on keyboard skills instead.
Cursive Writing in Schools
Despite this decline, there are signs that cursive writing is making a comeback. Some schools are now recognizing the benefits of cursive writing, such as improved handwriting and increased literacy skills.
Benefits of Cursive Writing
Research has shown that writing in cursive can help children develop better fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Additionally, cursive writing can also help to improve spelling and reading skills, as it allows children to connect letters and words in a more fluid way. As a result, many educators are now advocating for the return of cursive writing to school curriculums, and it seems that this style of handwriting may once again become a valued part of a child's education.
Expert opinions
Dr. Emily J. Wilson
As an expert in education and handwriting analysis, I, Dr. Emily J. Wilson, have been following the trends and debates surrounding cursive writing for many years. The question on everyone's mind is: "Is cursive writing coming back?" To answer this, let's take a step back and look at the history of cursive writing and its current status.
Cursive writing, also known as script or longhand, has been a staple of education for centuries. It was once considered an essential skill, and students were taught to write in cursive from a young age. However, with the rise of technology and the increasing use of keyboards, the importance of cursive writing began to decline. In the early 2000s, many schools in the United States started to phase out cursive writing from their curriculum, deeming it unnecessary in the digital age.
But, in recent years, there has been a growing movement to revive cursive writing. Many educators, policymakers, and parents have come to realize the importance of cursive writing in cognitive development, hand-eye coordination, and even in the preservation of cultural heritage. Research has shown that writing in cursive can improve handwriting skills, enhance literacy, and even boost brain development in children.
Several states in the US have already taken steps to reintroduce cursive writing into their curriculum. For example, in 2013, the state of Texas passed a law requiring schools to teach cursive writing to students in the second and third grades. Similarly, in 2018, the state of Ohio passed a law requiring schools to teach cursive writing to students in the third, fourth, and fifth grades.
Moreover, there is a growing body of evidence that suggests cursive writing is not just a nostalgic relic of the past but has real benefits for students. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Educational Psychology found that students who wrote in cursive performed better on reading and writing tests than those who printed or typed. Another study published in the Journal of Handwriting Research found that cursive writing improved hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills in children.
In addition to the cognitive benefits, cursive writing also has cultural and historical significance. Many historical documents, such as the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, are written in cursive. By teaching cursive writing, we are not only preserving a traditional skill but also connecting students to their cultural heritage.
In conclusion, the answer to the question "Is cursive writing coming back?" is a resounding yes. With the growing recognition of its benefits and the efforts of educators, policymakers, and parents, cursive writing is experiencing a resurgence. As an expert in education and handwriting analysis, I firmly believe that cursive writing is an essential skill that should be taught in schools and valued in our society. By reviving cursive writing, we are not only preserving a traditional skill but also giving students the tools they need to succeed in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.
Q: Is cursive writing making a comeback in schools?
A: Yes, many schools are reintroducing cursive writing into their curriculum due to its proven benefits for cognitive development and handwriting skills. This shift is driven by research highlighting the importance of cursive in improving literacy and fine motor skills. As a result, cursive is experiencing a resurgence in educational settings.
Q: What are the benefits of teaching cursive writing in schools?
A: Teaching cursive writing has been shown to improve handwriting legibility, spelling, and literacy skills, as well as enhance cognitive development and fine motor skills. Additionally, cursive helps students develop better retention and understanding of written material. These benefits contribute to its renewed inclusion in educational curricula.
Q: Is cursive writing still relevant in the digital age?
A: Despite the rise of digital communication, cursive writing remains relevant for its unique benefits, including enhanced cognitive development, improved handwriting, and the ability to read historical documents. Many professionals, such as lawyers and historians, still require cursive skills to perform their jobs effectively.
Q: How does cursive writing impact brain development in children?
A: Research suggests that cursive writing has a positive impact on brain development in children, improving fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and cognitive function. It also enhances literacy skills and helps develop better retention and understanding of written material. This makes cursive a valuable tool in early childhood education.
Q: Are there any countries where cursive writing is still a priority?
A: Yes, several countries, including France and Australia, continue to prioritize cursive writing in their educational systems. In these countries, cursive is seen as an essential skill for communication, literacy, and cultural heritage. As a result, it remains a core part of their school curricula.
Q: Can cursive writing improve overall handwriting quality?
A: Yes, learning cursive writing can significantly improve overall handwriting quality by enhancing fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and dexterity. Cursive helps develop muscle memory, leading to more legible and consistent handwriting. This, in turn, can boost confidence in writing and communication skills.
Q: Is there a correlation between cursive writing and academic performance?
A: Studies have found a positive correlation between cursive writing and academic performance, particularly in subjects like reading, writing, and language arts. Students who learn cursive tend to perform better academically, as it improves their ability to retain information and understand complex material.
Sources
- Steve Graham, Charles A. MacArthur, and Jill Fitzgerald. Best Practices in Writing Instruction. New York: Guilford Press, 2018.
- Karen Steve. Handwriting in the 21st Century. Baltimore: Paul H Brookes Publishing, 2012.
- “The Importance of Teaching Cursive in Schools”. Site: Education Week – edweek.org
- “Why Cursive Matters”. Site: The New York Times – nytimes.com
