This one-pager refers to the importance of joined handwriting for spelling and writing.
It includes single letter examples of a style which I've adapted and taught to all age groups very successfully in the minimum of time.
I don't advocate teaching joined handwriting in Reception classes as some schools do here in England (4 to 5 year olds) because I personally prefer children of this age to focus on simple print and directionality and pencil hold and (of course) the phonics teaching!
I'm leaning toward the introduction of joined handwriting mid to end of the year for Year Ones when they have already received a year and a half at least of phonics teaching and handwriting opportunities.
I'm planning to produce a video clip as soon as possible about teaching joined handwriting. I'm afraid far too many schools are not, in my opinion, rigorous enough, or effective enough, in teaching joined handwriting well for all students. It's perfectly possible, however, to make a dramatic difference in less than a term for any age range. In fact, I've seen dramatic differences in only a day or a handful of lessons.
Teaching handwriting needs to be a whole school approach without a shadow of a doubt. Gains can be dramatically lost if subsequent teachers don't all have high standards and consistency and a determination that it's simply good practice to advocate and ensure good penmanship and good presentation of written work and project work.
![Confused :?](./images/smilies/icon_confused.gif)
This document can be downloaded from the homepage via the 'In a Nutshell...' box!