Cursive Alphabet writing is an art form in and of itself. Writing words on paper takes practice and technique. It can be used for letter writing, journal entries, and even calligraphy. You will not be able to perfect the art in a single day. It takes a lot of practice. You must adhere to the procedures and continue to practice until you believe you have mastered the art of cursive handwriting.
What is Cursive Alphabet Writing?
Cursive handwriting is a type of linked up handwriting in which the letters are connected to aid in writing speed. This is an alternative to block letters, in which the pen is lifted up between each letter. It is also known as joined-up handwriting. It’s also known as script handwriting.
The History of Cursive Handwriting
Cursive handwriting, also known as joined-up or script handwriting, was invented in the 17th century. Cursive Alphabet writing letters was the favoured way of writing for professions such as lawyers and doctors prior to the invention of the typewriter. Cursive was referred to as ‘fair hand’ and was regarded suited for significant letters and papers.
The quill is closely associated with the origins of cursive handwriting. When pencils and pens were not available, the most frequent writing implement was a quill. Cursive Alphabet writing was designed to overcome the constraints of quills, which are substantially more delicate and easily broken than modern writing implements. Cursive Alphabet writing enabled people to write for extended periods of time without lifting their quills from the paper. This was fantastic since it meant the quill would be less likely to splatter ink all over the parchment.
The term “cursive” is derived from the Middle French word “cursive,” which is derived from the Mediaeval Latin word “cursive,” which means “running.” This is understandable, given that your pen is practically running around the page without breaking.
Why is Cursive Alphabet Writing Necessary?
Few people still write with pen and paper, let alone in cursive script, in today’s modern world. Cursive writing, according to academics, is vital for cognitive development and the sensorimotor part of the brain. Handwriting cursive letters differs significantly from typing or tracing the same letters in terms of learning. But, with so many cellphones, laptops, and tablets for reading and writing text, is writing cursive still necessary, or has it become an obsolete learning tool?
Many school districts no longer teach cursive, with one University of Southern California professor claiming, “It’s much more likely that keyboarding will help students succeed in careers and in school than cursive will.” Cursive is still taught in a few states. So, what are the advantages of cursive handwriting skills when a machine can perform the same function? Children learning cursive have cognitive and visual benefits, according to science.
Brain and Cursive Handwriting
Using a pen or pencil to form letters with the hand differs cognitively from pressing a physical or virtual key on a keyboard. Forming letters by hand while learning establishes a link between the movement of the hand and the visual response of seeing the letter on the page. There are several processes going on at the same time:
- The movement of the hand
- The thinking of the letter
- The visual cue of the letter
- This is a necessary talent of reading and writing at the same time.
This procedure is necessary for children to completely learn the English language and relate words to muscle memory. Learning cursive handwriting is beneficial to spelling skills because it allows youngsters to recognise words when they read them later. Because typing does not involve the same fine motor skills and simultaneous engagement, it does not have the same effect on the brain.
Cursive Writing Styles
The Cursive Alphabet was regarded as a writing tool that did not permit the writer to lift from the paper. Cursive means to run. It is derived from the Latin word “currere,” which means “to hasten or run quickly.” Although it is no longer widely used, its popularity has grown, and cursive fonts have even been produced. Cursive Alphabet writing is further classified into the following types:
Looped
The ascenders and descenders in this cursive handwriting style have loops that aid preserve the flow and create meaningful connections.
Italic
In g, j, q, and y, there are no joins or loops. During the Italian Renaissance, this style of writing became highly popular. In this type of cursive writing, not all letters are linked.
Ligature
It uses lines to connect the distinct letters of words. You can write in a joint form without having to lift your pen or pencil. Some of the letters in this sort of penmanship are written in a loop manner to assist connect the letters.
Cursive Education makes Children Smarter
Cursive, according to Dr. William Klemm, the “Memory Medic,” can improve children’s intelligence. Writing by hand trains the brain to integrate multiple types of information at the same time, including visual and tactile inputs, while using fine motor skills. Cursive, according to Dr. Klemm, can bring similar benefits to the brain as learning to play a musical instrument.
While everyone should learn to type in today’s environment, cursive handwriting has its advantages. It is difficult to learn, but it teaches organization skills and helps students compose their own thoughts and ideas. Cursive Alphabet writing can be used as part of a dyslexia treatment plan to improve hand-eye coordination, memory, vision-related issues, and other brain activities. Reading cursive and practicing writing in cursive is a vital aspect of a curriculum that strengthens children’s cognitive and visual skills, rather than letting handwriting die in schools.
Cursive Handwriting Step-by-Step Instructions
Write on a Writing Table
Don’t just scribble on any old piece of paper. Put your heart and mind into it. It is preferable to practice at home if you have a writing table. This allows you to write in a comfortable position without spraining your back. Your posture should be appropriate. Place the writing pad on the table and sit in a comfortable chair. When writing, the shoulder and neck muscles are also used. Make certain that your feet are flat on the ground and that your shoulders are relaxed. You can now relax and enjoy writing.
Select the Best Pen
When writing in cursive, you must pick a pen that flows easily. You can even use a pencil if you’re used to it, and the writing should flow smoothly onto the paper. Use a gel pen with a fine point. The letters would be simple to form and would look lovely on the worksheet. If you frequently erase, invest in a B pencil with a triangle barrel.
Begin by tracing
There are numerous tracing books available to assist you in writing creatively. The form and organization of this type of writing necessitate a set of abilities. In this day and age of technology, where most of us type, it can be difficult to enhance our handwriting. However, you cannot overlook the value of honing your writing abilities.
When you write beautifully on paper, it also represents your knowledge and education. Sending a letter to a colleague or friend in Cursive Alphabet writing demonstrates your superior intellectual capacity.
The following are the first steps in learning this creative writing art:
- Purchase some alphabet tracing books featuring alphabets on each page.
- Trace the letter a carefully;
- Stick to the dotted line;
- Fill in the blanks;
- Take a separate sheet of paper and practice without the tracing book;
- Continue practicing for a few days until you believe you can write on your own.
Begin writing in lowercase letters
If you used blank paper, make sure your angle is accurate. Tilt the paper slightly so that your body and hand are aligned with it. Secure the paper with your left hand and begin making words. Keep the following points in mind when practicing lowercase letters:
- Begin by practicing only one alphabet i.e. cursive s or cursive q;
- You should try your hand at a few letters that are simple to practice;
- h, j, p, u, w, and y are simple to practice on.
- Then practice b, f, and k because they require an extra stroke.
- Don’t start writing harder alphabets like g, o, and f because they require more individual practice.
Cursive Alphabet Uppercase Letters
When learning how to write capital letters in cursive, there are a few factors to keep in mind:
- Don’t start by practicing tough words, use cursive Q or cursive S.
- Choose E, G, L, and O. These are relatively simple;
- Then, practice writing one of the most difficult capital letters, ‘R’.
- After you’ve mastered the letter R, move on to the letters B, T, J, D, and F.
- To learn how to practice cursive handwriting, use appropriate printables.
Practice is the Key
To improve your handwriting, make a lined tracing copy. There are numerous methods to put it into practice. You must focus on improving your handwriting with workbooks and practice sheets.
Cursive Alphabet typefaces are also available in this day and age. If you enjoy writing in cursive, you should use a Cursive Alphabet font on your computer as well.
