Is Cursive Handwriting Still Taught in Schools?

There is a common belief that cursive handwriting is no longer taught in schools. However, this belief is not entirely accurate. Let's explore the history of cursive handwriting and its current status in the education system.

The Historical Context of Penmanship

Decades ago, cursive handwriting was a fundamental skill taught in American schools. In the late 1970s, elementary school students in my hometown would have a class called 'Penmanship,' which was essentially the teaching of cursive writing.

By the end of the 1980s, the practice of cursive writing began to diminish, particularly in public schools. AJG, a former educator, notes that by the time students reached the sixth grade, most teachers required papers to be handwritten in cursive for the final grading. However, cursive writing was still taught as a requirement in many states.

Cursive Writing in the Modern Era

Despite the decline in cursive handwriting instruction, it still holds a place in the curriculum of many schools. For instance, in North Carolina, cursive writing is a required skill, though not with extensive focus. Teachers often allocate only a few weeks at the end of the school year, post-standardized tests, to teach the skill. The primary goal is to ensure students can sign their names effectively.

The Decline and Resurgence of Cursive

Prevalent technological advancements, such as the widespread use of computers and keyboards, have contributed to the decline of cursive handwriting instruction. This shift began in the 1980s and 1990s, but the pendulum has been swinging back. Recently, New Jersey enacted a law requiring all public schools to teach cursive handwriting.

Is Cursive Handwriting Anti-Intellectual?

Some argue that cursive handwriting is anti-intellectual and best categorized as a form of "woke" hand-scribbling. This viewpoint suggests that cursive writing was a politically motivated deviation from standard handwriting. However, this perspective overlooks the rich cognitive benefits associated with cursive writing.

Decades of research, such as Dr. Betty Edwards' work in 'Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain,' highlight the pedagogical value of cursive handwriting. Dr. Edwards demonstrated that periods of longhand classroom instruction can have a calming effect on children, preparing them for subsequent academic presentations in subjects like math and science.

The cognitive shift described by R-Mode and L-Mode in 'Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain' emphasizes the neurological advantages of cursive writing. These benefits include improved fine motor skills, enhanced cognitive function, and a more relaxed and focused state of mind for children.

Conclusion

While the prevalence of cursive handwriting has certainly diminished in recent years, it remains an important skill that many schools still endeavor to teach. The debate over its value continues, but the evidence supports the continued inclusion of cursive writing in the education curriculum. By teaching cursive handwriting, educators can provide students with a valuable tool that fosters brain development and practical communication skills.