How do you sign your name? Do you print it? Type it? Or do you write it in cursive?

For a long, long time, all schools taught cursive writing to students. Then computers and keyboards came along. Some teachers wondered if knowing cursive was still important. A lot of schools stopped teaching it.

Many have said there isn't enough class time for cursive. And they didn't want to waste time teaching cursive lessons. Fans of cursive writing disagree. They think that learning this skill helps students do better in school. Some are pushing to bring back cursive lessons.

The Case for Cursive

People in favor of cursive point out ways it helps kids. Research shows it aids brain development. Kids have to think in new ways to make the curvy letters. Experts say it improves reading, spelling, and creative thinking.

Using cursive writing to take notes also helps students. Researchers have looked at students who handwrite notes in class and kids who type them. Those who type may take more notes. But those who write them? They remember more.

"[Cursive writing is] going to make you smarter." That's what one teacher tells her students.

The Case Against Cursive

Others are not in favor of teaching cursive. Teacher Jason Zobl-Tar was asked why. "There is only so much time in the school day," he said. Teachers have to make hard choices. Many think reading and math should come first. So, cursive writing often gets cut.

Another point against cursive? Fewer and fewer people use it now. And cursive is not used online or in books. Cursive seems to be disappearing. So why should schools try to save it?

In Closing

Schools teach what kids most need to learn. Keyboarding is a key skill. Learning cursive seems less important.

Yet, learning cursive writing seems to help students. Many who teach it say that it lets kids be more creative. It can even link people of different ages. One class of third graders sends letters to new friends who are a lot older. For them, it is a fun way to practice their cursive writing.

Yes, everyone has to have keyboarding skills now. But some people say there is more to learning and life than doing more and doing it faster. Maybe a cursive comeback is a way of slowing down.

Think about and discuss these questions:
Think about both sides of the cursive debate. What do you think are the strongest reasons on each side?
When, if ever, do you think knowing cursive might be useful?
QUESTION 5


5 / 8

According to the article, why do some teachers think cursive should not be taught?

Cursive is used by fewer and fewer people.
Typed notes help brain development.
Cursive slows down creative thinking.
Typed notes help students remember more.