Cursive Handwriting

With more widespread use of technology, handwriting and particularly, cursive handwriting, is used less and less often. Yet, handwriting is a skill with academic implications that go beyond just note taking. Handwriting is closely linked to literacy outcomes and has been shown to enhance retention of material when compared to typing (Mangen & et al., 2015; Mueller & Oppenheimer, 2014). While the importance of handwriting to learning is certain, the value of learning cursive handwriting is still under debate. Nevertheless, cursive handwriting is a skill that you may wish (or need to) learn! 

The resources presented in this guide focus specifically on helping students to develop cursive handwriting.

• Set up a consistent routine of when you will practice your cursive handwriting. Practice for at least 15-20 min. every day.
• Create a practice plan with deadlines of when you aim to achieve each particular milestone. For example, “between September 3 and 8, I will learn to write uppercase and lowercase letters A-G.” Give yourself a small reward for each achieved milestone.
• Share your learning plan and progress with others to keep yourself motivated and accountable.
• Collect all the resources you need: pen or pencil, printed worksheets, purchased workbook, ruled pages, etc. Keep them together in one place.
• Make sure you have a comfortable, well-lit, clutter-free workspace for practice.

For more effective study routine tips, visit the Learning Strategies guide.

References:

Mangen, A., Anda, L.G., Oxborough, G.H. , Bronnick, K.K. (2015). Handwriting versus keyboard writing: effect on word recall. Journal of Writing Research, 300-319. doi: 10.17239/jowr-2015.07.02.1

Mueller, P. A., & Oppenheimer, D. M. (2014). The pen is mightier than the laptop: Advantages of longhand over laptop note-taking. Psychological Science, 25(6), 1159–1168.