Swoops and Loops Return!

Several years ago, cursive was taken out of the curriculum. It is back now, during library class for sixth graders at Wells. Library Specialist Mary Debellis teaches the unit of study–she went through twelve years of Catholic education and is well equipped to teach cursive.

Each student is given a workbook called Handwriting: Learn Cursive. At the beginning of the unit, Debellis models cursive on the Ben Q board, using lined practice paper with a top line, midline, and baseline to demonstrate how letters should connect smoothly, with a consistent slant. Once students are comfortable with single letters, Debellis then introduces simple two-letter combinations, showing how the letters connect to one another. She then moves on to words, short sentences and finally, a paragraph. Students begin by tracing each letter, both upper and lower case. They then practice letter formation and fluid connection of individual letters.

“I always tell my students consistent practice is the key to developing good cursive handwriting. As a class we engage in regular short 10-15 minute practice sessions.”

“Lower case e’s are easy, but capital F’s are the hardest,” explained Sky Browne.

“What’s the key? Don’t lift up your pencil!” said Blake Ponzini.

Angelina Palmieri, who spent time in Italy learning cursive, has already mastered the technique and has an elegant signature to show for it.

The students are busy at desks in the library, making loops and connecting letters. For some, it is like meditation. For others it is like artwork. Do they understand the benefit? Absolutely.

“Someday I will need to sign my name on my license,” said Ava Wolff.

Abigail Jones thought for a moment, “For adult paperwork, like writing checks.”

“I might need to sign a contract,” said Charlotte Moran.

“My grandma only writes in cursive, so I’ll be able to read her letters,” added Charlotte.