3.11: Policy on Handwriting

The ability to communicate through the written word is an aim of Sonna N.S. However, it is also important for each child to acquire a neat handwriting style, through which they can express their ideas on page.
We wish to encourage the children to write neatly in their exercise books through the encouragement and praise of neat work. We hope that each child shall develop a pride in their work through positive reinforcement of their efforts.

Scheme of handwriting through the school

• The children initially practice handwriting patterns in Junior Infants on unlined copies. They then progress to practising letters (upper and lower case) using the Jolly Phonics worksheets and lined copies.
• First and second class use Just Write 1 and Just Write 2.
• Third class begins to learn joined writing using the ‘Write Here’ G handwriting series. By Fourth class they should be using joined writing in most of their work and this will be encouraged. They shall also continue to use ‘Write Here’ H workbooks, to reinforce and practice their joined handwriting.
• In fifth and sixth classes the children will use joined writing as part of their daily activities

The school will place:

• Emphasis on proper pencil grip
• Emphasis on good writing posture
• Emphasis on proper letter formation
• Emphasis on quality presentation

Left Handed Pupils
Children’s hand dominance will not be influenced.