Yes, Cursive Writing is Still Important
- Jan 27
- 4 min read
Updated: Feb 13
In our digital world, cursive writing might seem old-fashioned, but many educators and parents believe it remains a crucial skill. The decline of cursive instruction, largely due to high-stakes testing in schools, has left students without a key component of literacy. This week I'll talk about why learning cursive is important and why it's disappearing in classrooms.
The Importance of Cursive Writing
Cursive writing is more than just a way to write. It is a form of communication that connects us to our history and enhances cognitive skills. Research shows that students who practice cursive writing demonstrate higher levels of motor skills development and creativity. For example, a study from the University of Washington found that students who wrote in cursive scored 30% higher on measures of writing fluency than those who printed.
Furthermore, writing in cursive helps develop the brain in unique ways. The intricate movements required to form cursive letters stimulate parts of the brain associated with language and fine motor skills. This can lead to better handwriting fluidity and even improved reading and comprehension abilities.
When students learn cursive, they engage with historical texts, understanding how important documents were crafted. For instance, students can appreciate the original handwritten Declaration of Independence or the letters of famous authors like Mark Twain. Such connections deepen their understanding of history and foster pride in their writing abilities.
The Challenge of High-Stakes Testing
High-stakes testing dominates the modern education system, shaping schools’ curricula. As schools focus on preparing students for standardized tests that dictate funding and teacher evaluations, cursive writing often gets overlooked.
In a 2021 survey, over 70% of teachers reported spending 80% or more of classroom time on subjects that directly impact standardized test scores. This leaves little room for cursive instruction (or even writing in general), leading to a noticeable gap in skills. Unfortunately, this trend exacerbates the struggle to prioritize cursive writing, which is listed as a lesser priority compared to math and reading.
Teachers really do want to teach more writing, including cursive, but there simply isn't enough time in the day. As schools limit their focus to tested subjects, educators express frustration. Teachers might spend weeks on math and science while cursive remains an afterthought, receiving little to no instructional time.
Parents’ and Teachers’ Frustrations
The complaints from parents and teachers regarding the lack of cursive writing instruction are genuine. Many educators advocate for cursive as a tool for enhancing student thinking and self-expression. For example, a survey by the National Writing Project found that 67% of teachers believe cursive writing encourages deeper critical thinking skills.
Parents often share concerns that their children lose out on valuable abilities, like reading historical documents or writing personal letters. For instance, when children cannot read their grandparents’ handwritten letters, they miss out on valuable family history.
In a world dominated by digital communication, many argue that cursive is even more crucial today. Legibly signing one’s name is an expression of identity. Parents are worried that without cursive instruction, their children might lose this form of self-expression and the connection it brings.
The Path Forward
The path ahead for cursive instruction is not hopeless. Advocacy from parents, teachers, and education advocates can inspire meaningful change in educational policy. Additionally, online resources can keep cursive alive outside the classroom. Parents and children can use engaging worksheets and videos to practice writing together at home. As an elementary school teacher, I can attest that kids are interested in learning cursive writing. They want resources to do it.
But here's the thing: even when teachers find time to teach cursive, it's usually just a small amount of time carved out of a busy day. Cursive writing, like any skill, requires a lot of practice for kids to master it. This is when parents need to tag in and give their kids the time at home to practice their cursive writing skills. Whether it's tracing and practicing the letters, writing words and sentences, or writing their homework in cursive, at-home practice is critical because there isn't enough time in the school day to do it.
As high-stakes testing continues to shape educational landscapes, it is important to remember the significance of cursive writing. Education should encompass more than just test scores; it must foster well-rounded individuals with skills that enrich their lives.
In Summary
The importance of cursive writing in education remains significant, even though high-stakes testing often pushes it aside. The cognitive benefits, historical connections, and personal expression that cursive writing provides are invaluable.
It is crucial for educators, parents, and communities to collaborate and advocate for cursive writing's place in education. It's also important for parents to support their kids giving them time at home to practice writing in cursive. By working together, we can ensure future generations not only learn to write beautifully but also understand the significance of this skill in their daily lives. Cursive writing may face challenges, but with renewed efforts, it can continue to be an essential part of literacy education.
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