Reading, Writing Typing and Arithmetic
By Lily
I was surprised to learn that cursive writing is being dropped from the curriculum in many public schools. At my last parent-teacher conference, I questioned my daughter’s teacher and found out that her school is one of those “many.” I was told that the viewpoint is, “if the students are not tested on the subject, it doesn’t matter.”
I understand that a keyboard has replaced the mighty pen and that schools are going to ensure their funding by focusing on student test scores. But I wonder about the reading and writing of cursive becoming a lost art. How will the students of today sign their names to contracts as adults? Will those treasured family letters stored away lose their meaning? In the future, will there be anyone left who can actually read the original Declaration of Independence?
Learning cursive at a young age broadens a child’s thinking skills. It’s an achievement to look at a bunch of squiggly lines and turn them into words; it takes focus to master the pen on paper. And, unlike algebra, cursive becomes a lifelong skill. (Okay, maybe that’s just me.)
I want my child to have the advantages that modern technology brings to education. But that doesn’t mean I’m willing to trade off all of the old. I will be teaching cursive to my daughter. Lucky for me, she’s looking forward to it. Her wonderful teacher offered to supply the materials to aid me in teaching her. Since her school year is full one, we will work on it during the summertime.
What do you think? Do you still want your child to learn cursive even though he may soon be texting you from his bedroom? Do you see it as necessary or do you think it’s a waste of time?
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Comments
10 Responses to Reading, Typing and Arithmetic
That is the trend here too, I think it’s a disgrace. Everyone needs to sign their name on something! Spelling is also not in the curriculum here, thankful that both my kids have teachers that make an effort to do it anyway.
I agree, kids need to learn to write in cursive. One school in California has removed tech stuff from their grade school Wish I could remember the school. I hope they are setting the next trend, that kids learn to read, write and do math the old fashioned way.
I found out the same recently- I was really shocked. Its such a basic and important skill. In my opinion its much more useful than much of the things they are required to learn. I will be teaching our child to read and write it as well.
I am really surprised at this. I don’t really understand the reasoning behind it either. There are so many things in everyday life that you still need a pen and paper for and cursive writing is still what I choose to use when doing so.
Thankfully, at my daughter’s last PT interview, her teachers understood the importance and value of cursive writing and will be teaching it in class. And my daughter is very interested in learning it. She thinks its “pretty”. I will be handwriting some responses in her school journal.
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But having said that, why can’t they just print their signatures? And knowing our society and culture, there will be an app to interpret old written letters and documents.
Marnie, no spelling? Wow, that would really bug me, even more than not teaching cursive. What are kids learning these days?
Jennie says…What are kids learning these days?
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I guess to be good little test takers on whatever subjects The Powers That Be deem important?
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I agree, kind of sad. Although, I guess it is a subject that parents can take over easier than some others. I do agree that those children who have parents that will teach them cursive will definitely benefit. Proof again that engaged parents make such a difference.
I was more than a little annoyed about the spelling, even more annoyed when I’m in my son’s classroom and kids ask ‘does spelling count on this’ and the teacher sys ‘no’. Spelling counts!!!!!
Personally, I think learning cursive has value. I love writing stuff no one can read.
This is part of the “dumbing down” of our Educational System! I am amazed at how many young College Graduates cannot spell! Starting in Elementary School all the way through High School we had weekly spelling tests and I think that had a big influence on my vocabulary. As far as Cursive Writing goes, I think that is so important. Nothing helps set you apart in business and even in your personal life like a handwritten note, not written in print like a 7 year old. My Mom who is 83 still has the most beautiful penmanship (do they still use that word)and it is a lost art.
I love the computer for so many things but I think it is really hurting our kids when it comes to learning and being an Independent Thinker. Don’t even get me started about what they are no longer teaching in History Classes!