A student is writing a letter to the editor of a local newspaper about the need for cursive instruction in the classroom. The student wants to revise the draft to make the introduction stronger. Read the draft of the letter and complete the task that follows.

Question

There are many reasons why cursive writing is no longer taught in schools. Today, most people use computers to communicate with friends, family members, and co–workers. Students even take tests on computers these days. But that does not mean that handwriting is not an important skill.

Experts argue that removing cursive instruction from classrooms does students a disservice. Our world is becoming increasingly digital, but this does not mean that script has been abandoned entirely. Students will eventually learn that cursive is still necessary in our modern world. They will use cursive every time they write a check or sign a form for a loan.

In addition to its real–world uses, learning cursive has other benefits. Studies show that several areas of the brain are activated by writing in cursive. These parts of the brain control thinking, language, and working memory. Some of these areas are also activated when printing letters. But these studies show that writing loopy cursive letters is an even more challenging task for the brain. This is why learning cursive requires so much practice. However, this practice has its own benefits. Learning to write in cursive improves hand–eye coordination and fine motor control.

Choose the paragraph that would make the best introduction to establish and introduce the claim.
A.

Many people are upset because some schools are no longer teaching cursive in the classroom. These people believe that cursive is an important part of a student's education. However, others argue that cursive is no longer needed. Most people use computers to do their work today, and teaching students to write in cursive is a waste of time because they will never use it. Teachers have little time during the day to get through their lessons. Some people feel that this time would be better spent on subjects like math and science. Still, others say that cursive is necessary.

B.

Computers, cell phones, and tablets have put a wealth of information at our fingertips. However, the use of these devices comes with a price. Keyboards and touch screens are making the practice of putting pen to paper outdated. In fact, the popularity of typing has caused some schools to stop teaching cursive writing to students. Many people argue that cursive is not needed in a world where most people type. But these people are ignoring the benefits that learning cursive provides students. Cursive is still used for many tasks, and learning cursive can help students improve other skills.

C.

Today, most people use computers to do their work. Knowing how to use a computer is an important skill that every student needs to learn. Because computers are becoming more popular, many schools are not focusing on handwriting anymore. Some schools do not even teach cursive writing. This is because many students use computers to write reports and take notes. Some tests are even given on the computer these days. This gives students few opportunities to practice their penmanship.

D
.

Many years ago, one of the first things that students learned in school was cursive writing. Cursive writing is different from print writing. Instead of using straight lines to create separate letters, cursive writing uses loopy letters that are connected. This type of writing is not only more efficient than printing, but it is also very beautiful. Some of our most treasured historical documents, including the Declaration of Independence, were written in cursive.

Answer 1

The best introduction to establish and introduce the claim about the need for cursive instruction in the classroom would be:

B.

Explanation: This paragraph effectively acknowledges the prevalence of technology in communication while asserting that the benefits of learning cursive should not be overlooked. It aligns well with the rest of the letter's argument, which emphasizes both the practical uses of cursive and the cognitive benefits associated with learning it. The introduction sets the stage for a discussion about the importance of cursive writing, making it a strong choice for the letter's opening.