Handwriting

First grade students are reviewing D’Nealian letter formation.  Students will practice one or two letters per week as we work our way through the alphabet.  During handwriting, students are encouraged to use an appropriate pencil grip and follow the proper path of movement.  Uppercase and lowercase letters are first practiced through sky writing.  Then, they are traced and written independently on primary lined paper.  Finally, students are asked to generate and write words beginning with the corresponding letter.  Check out this article from Reading Rockets about the The Importance of Teaching Handwriting.

This week’s Friday folder will also contain a pencil grip assessment, indicating whether or not your child is using an efficient grip without assistance.  Those using inefficient grips will be encouraged to use a pencil grip to assist them in holding their pencil correctly.  Supplemental handwriting practice may be sent home on an individual basis.

Journals

Summit first graders have begun journal writing.  Student journals will be primarily used by students to write freely about a topic of choice or in response to open ended writing prompts.  Today, we began by asking, “What do writers write about?”  After our discussion, students started their first journal entry which consisted of a list of writing ideas they may reference and add to throughout the school year.  The use of student journals helps to build confidence in writing skills and enables tracking of writing development.  This year, we will work to build writing stamina, with a goal of being able to write independently for 20 minutes or more.