Rationale

Handwriting still remains one of the most acceptable direct methods of communication and it is essential that every pupil is given access to the tools of the trade. It is estimated that school children are requested to write for at least 30% of the school day, so it is important that the writing task should be well within the reach of pupils.

Purpose

To allow all pupils the opportunity to develop a fluent personal handwriting style.

Methods

Our aim is to develop fluent handwriting through a structured approach, based on a logical progression of handwriting skills. A variety of stages are employed, each one building on the one before:

• Pre writing skills - preparing children for writing through a variety of enjoyable activities, leading to the development of the necessary motor skills for handwriting.
• Letter formation - establishing correct hand movement for a firm foundation to letter formation preparation for joining.
• Joining letters - beginning to produce clear and legible joined up writing.
• Neatness and fluency - continuing progress in joining by observing difference features affecting neatness, and developing a fluent hand.
• Presentation - using well formed and flowing handwriting for particular purposes.
• Regular discrete lessons focusing on improvement

Guidelines

It is our policy to assess the handwriting of each pupil and identify any difficulties.

• It is very important that children can form letters correctly before they attempt to join.
• To check pencil /pen grip and correct tension.
• To check writing pressure and clarity of stroke.
• To check position of paper in relation to body and desk and in relation to non-writing hand.
• To check seating position.
• To check pupil knows name and sound of the letter being written.
• To check letter/numeral formation, letter reversals and inversions, use of capital letters.
• Monitor size of writing.
• Monitor space between letters/letter slope and spacing of words.
• To increase the speed at which they write whilst retaining legibility.
• To ensure that left handed pupils adopt the most efficient techniques for easy flowing writing.

Commerical Resources

Ginn Handwriting

Home/School Liaison

Letter/Numeral formation sheets shared with parents.

Conclusion

By meeting the individual needs of each pupil we aim to lay the foundation to the adoption of a legible script for effective communication.