Steps4Kids to Write Modern Manuscript

K-Gr 1—From proper seating and pencil grip to the formation of each upper-case and lower-case letter, this production teaches children how to form letters using Manuscript writing, a slanted style in between printing and cursive. The letters are formed, for the most part, all in one stroke, and have curved embellishments that make them look closer to script. The video begins with instructions to teachers for setting up proper writing stations; the setting shown looks like a home-school situation, but the advice is solid. There are useful tips for helping students hold the pencil properly. The other two sections address proper formation of upper and lower case letters. The letters are shown, the alphabet is shown and spoken, and words beginning with each letter are identified. Occasional fun drawing breaks show students how to create simple pictures using letters, such as a mouse from the letter V. After each letter family is taught, Look2Write exercises present a list of words which begin with those letters; students are instructed to either find or write the words as they are spoken. Some use letters that have not been taught. The program introduces about 100 sight words. Lined templates of writing paper, for interactive boards or printing, are available at stepskids.com. With proper breaks for practice and reinforcement, this would be a helpful tool for teaching pre-cursive writing.—MaryAnn Karre, Horace Mann Elementary School, Binghamton, NY