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It is critical that students be taught how to form letters correctly in early elementary. By the time a child is 8 years old, they will typically have developed motor memory, and it will be difficult to fix bad habits that negatively impact their handwriting. Take time to teach them how to write their letters...it is a gift that will last a lifetime!
It is developmentally appropriate to TEACH children how to write capital letters first, using a consistent language that students understand. A multi-sensory approach is most effective.
ACA_CapitalLetterFormationChart - Copy - Copy.pdfcapital letter formation
capital letter formation
Capitals are easiest to teach, because they are all the same size. Generally, it is recommended teaching capitals first.
Teach them to "Start at the TOP!
Teach "Frog Jump" Letters
Teach "Frog Jump" Letters
B D E F K M N P R
B D E F K M N P R
LOWERCASE LETTER FORMATION
ACA_LowercaseLetterFormationChart - Copy - Copy - Copy.pdfTeach "Magic C" Letters
c, o, d, g, q, s
Teach "Diver" Letters
b h m n p r
If you have a student who has difficulty forming letters correctly:
You demonstrate and have the child imitate you.
Give the student a letter strip to use at his/her desk and at home.
Have parents work on correct letter formation.
Provide explicit verbal directions as you form the letter and have the students follow along, repeating the directions using the same words as they make the letters.
Try using a grease pencil when teaching difficult letter formations.
This slows the writing process and provides increased sensory input. Chalk on construction paperhas a similar effect.
Using the "Handwriting without Tears" format {wooden pieces and slate chalkboard) reteach the correct stroke sequence for problem letters. Teach the concept that letters start at the top (either at the corner or at the center).
ADDITIONAL RECOMMENDED STRATEGIES DURING WRITING INSTRUCTION:
Use the visual cues that various handwriting programs offer. For example the top left corner is indicated by the smiley face. Or, start at the top green line and stop at the bottom red line. Or, use Dirt-Grass-Sky lines.
Post letter strips on the student's desk.
Be vigilant when students are practicing on tracing sheets; make sure he/she is guided through the proper formation. Poor habits are difficult to modify.
Begin with upper case letters. Research indicates these are the easiest to learn because they are larger, all occupy the same height, and all start at the top.
After upper case letters, teach lower case. They are more difficult because they are not the same size, have subtle differences, occupy three different vertical positions, and start in four different places.
when teaching lower case letters start with:
• The "c" letters: c, o, d, a, g
• Teach the "diver" letters together: p, r, n, m, h, b
When teaching lower case, reinforce that there are:
• Tall Letters: b, d, f, h, k, I, t
• Short Letters: a,c, e, i, m, n, o, r, s, u, v, w, x, z
• Digger Letters: g, j, p, q, y
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