Michigan State University Extension
Diversity and Pluralism - DP120313
12/95/
ERIC TITLE NUMBER: ED284265 AUTHOR: Masters, D. Gay
TITLE: Handwriting. English Language Arts Concept Paper
Number 2.
YEAR PUBLISHED: 1987
NOTE: 13 p.
ABSTRACT: Noting that handwriting is a subskill that often
becomes an instructional end rather than a means to enhance
written communication, this paper examines research on
handwriting and its implications for instruction. Following
an introduction on the current status of handwriting
instruction, the paper summarizes research on handwriting
legibility, fluency, and self-evaluation. Then the paper
touches briefly on additional concerns that have appeared
in the research, including the manuscript versus cursive
script debate, and the writing implements--pens, paper,
grip, and position. Implications for instruction are then
discussed, in the areas of readiness, handwriting styles,
instructional strategies, left-handed writers, remediation,
and applications of technology. The paper concludes by
noting that teachers need more training in handwriting
instruction and that teacher attitude has a significant
impact on developing a positive disposition toward legible,
fluent handwriting. An annotated bibliography directed to
the classroom teacher is included. (HTH)
KEY DESCRIPTORS: Classroom-Environment; Educational
Research; Elementary-Education;
Theory-Practice-Relationship
KEY DESCRIPTORS: *Handwriting-; *Teaching-Methods; *Writing
Instruction
This is an ERIC database document. ERIC is the National
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to the literature of education -descriptions of exemplary
programs, research and development efforts, and related
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number. If EJ follows ERIC TITLE NUMBER the item is a
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