This step in the developmental sequence is a big one. Virtually all first grade pupils were experimenting with cursive letters - on their own - before the end of that year. Second graders are hungry to learn cursive! We will answer that burning desire with a gross motor readiness program. First, they should learn the position skills needed for fluent application of handwriting in any style! During the first six-week unit, we focus our attention on position skills and fluent movement. Everyone must master the paper-holding, writing-arm position skills that will allow lateral movement. Good position and fluent movement used for printwriting, should show forward slant - it's simple ergonomics.
It is important to repeat. This is not a transition curriculum. It is a PHYSICAL LANGUAGE READINESS PROCESS that answers the burning desire for cursive with a developmentally appropriate format of gross-motor activities. Students will continue to use print for applied writing and learn to use adult position for left-to-right fluency.
Fold back the pages to focus on the target letter. Place the book in writing position. Fingertrace the movement models to the "Action Word" rhythm. Slide the book aside and use practice paper to Write & Say. Follow the daily lesson outline provided in the teacher handbook and lead your class to handwriting fluency in just ten minutes a day. Where to start, stroke sequence, position skills and, most importantly, what kind of movement to make, are all communicated at the desk to everyone at the same time.
The strategy is simple, sound, effective and affordable. It has been working since 1908.
Pupil Book, We Write To Read, Grade 2, Cursive Readiness, ISBN 1-890666-26-2
Order code # 021600 $3.70
Free on request with 24 pupil books or $6.25, Order Code # 022000
Show me basic materials for third grade.
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Last update: June 2004, Rand H. Nelson, Peterson Directed Handwriting