In schools across the nation, cursive writing has been taken out of the curriculum. Why? Because as a new generation we are becoming more and more involved in the vast world of technology. We can thank computers for the removal of cursive writing, since it seems to be“so outdated”.

While some schools think cursive should stay in the past, others are holding on tightly to tradition. The National Education Association took a stance by saying “Cursive is a long held cultural tradition in this country that should continue to be taught.” Another source in favor of the continuation of cursive is Concord University in which they stated, “Cursive writing reinforces that learning should be to expand knowledge, not to pass a test.”

Cursive writing can also help with motor skills, since it works on muscles in the hand that simple printing does not enhance. It also strengthens your print writing as well.

The most important argument for this case is that most legal documentation has to be signed with a signature. If a student is not taught how to correctly sign their name, how are they expected to sign a check? Other stronger points that come with cursive writing is that it can make your writing more personal. Cursive can also help students become more confident in their writing, because the elegance shows maturity, elegance and even agility.

However, with the increased use of technology in the classroom, it is less likely that students will be able to practice this skill. Seventy seven percent of teachers use computer for internet instruction, which shows that learning is getting further away from writing and moving to more technical ways of teaching.

After asking some fellow MMS teachers, most of their responses correlates to what the National Education Organization said.

Mrs. Bartram makes another point why not learning cursive writing can be a set back. “I write in cursive and my students have no idea what it says.” Mrs. Bartram a seventh grade language arts teacher says.  Miss. Westfall a eighth grade teacher states that, “I would like to see students given the opportunity to learn the art of cursive writing along with a very practical typing class. I see both as beneficial in today’s society.”  Mr. Snitzer, another MMS teacher gives his point on the argument by saying, “With the advancements of technology, hand writing has almost been completely replaced by typing. Even when texting your just typing with your thumbs.”

Even within Mayfield Middle School there is a split take on whether cursive should be taught in schools or not. In the end, cursive writing should be put back in the school curriculum in order to benefit students!