There are different ideas about teaching cursive. What does each side think is most important? Write how their ideas are different. Then, write what you think about teaching cursive. Use facts from the article. You can use your own thinking, too.

Question

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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.

Answer 1

The debate over teaching cursive writing in schools highlights two distinctly different perspectives, each emphasizing various aspects of education and student development.

The Case for Cursive: Proponents of cursive argue that it plays a significant role in cognitive development and enhances various academic skills. They believe that learning cursive aids brain development by engaging students in complex thinking processes as they learn to form curvy letters. This skill is said to improve reading, spelling, and creative thinking as the nuances of penmanship require mental engagement and concentration. Additionally, research supports that students who take handwritten notes, including those in cursive, tend to retain information better than those who type. Advocates like one teacher state emphatically that "Cursive writing is going to make you smarter," underlining the perceived intellectual benefits of the practice.

The Case Against Cursive: Conversely, opponents argue that teaching cursive is not essential in the modern educational landscape. Educators like Jason Zobl-Tar emphasize the constraints of time in the school day and suggest that prioritizing core subjects like reading and math is more beneficial for students' overall educational needs. They also highlight the declining use of cursive in everyday life, noting that digital communication has reduced the necessity for cursive writing, leading many to question its relevance in the curriculum. With the rise of typing skills, skeptics feel that schools should focus on more practical skills that align with current job markets.

Personal Perspective on Teaching Cursive: In considering the arguments from both sides, I believe there is merit in integrating cursive writing into the curriculum, despite the dominance of typing in today’s world. While keyboarding skills are undoubtedly crucial, the cognitive benefits associated with learning cursive writing cannot be overlooked. The act of forming letters in a fluid manner may foster creativity and enhance fine motor skills, which are essential for young learners. Furthermore, cursive provides a tangible connection to history and tradition, allowing students to engage meaningfully with the written word.

In conclusion, while I acknowledge the necessity of teaching typing skills, I argue that finding a balance between modern skills and traditional handwriting can enrich education. Cursive writing serves as not only a practical skill but also a unique cognitive exercise that can enhance students’ overall learning experiences. By making room for cursive, schools can embrace a more holistic approach to education that incorporates both essential modern skills and valuable traditional practices.