Georgia, October 2, 2025
News Summary
In a significant educational reform, Georgia schools will include cursive writing in the English Language Arts curriculum starting in July 2025. This initiative mandates cursive instruction for students in third, fourth, and fifth grades, aiming to improve writing fluency and cater to diverse learning needs. Education specialists highlight the cognitive benefits of cursive writing, particularly for students with dyslexia. While some parents question its relevance in a digital world, the initiative seeks to cultivate a varied skill set for students, emphasizing both traditional and technological literacy.
Atlanta, Georgia – Starting in July 2025, Georgia schools will incorporate cursive writing into the English Language Arts curriculum as part of an updated education initiative. The revised English Language Arts standards will mandate cursive instruction for students in third, fourth, and fifth grades, marking a significant shift from previous educational approaches that did not prioritize handwriting instruction.
Under the new curriculum, third graders will learn to read and write in cursive for the first time. By the time students reach fourth and fifth grades, they will continue to practice cursive writing, building fluency and enhancing their overall communication skills. The goal is to equip students with a varied skill set that extends beyond basic literacy.
The decision to reintroduce cursive writing comes amidst growing concerns about the diminishing role of handwriting in an increasingly digital world. Some parents have expressed skepticism about the relevance of cursive instruction, arguing that students may benefit more from learning typing and technology skills. For instance, one parent shared that although her children learned cursive, they rarely use it in their daily lives, questioning its practical value.
However, education specialists advocate for the inclusion of cursive writing in the curriculum, citing its potential to enhance writing fluency and support spelling. Research suggests that fluent handwriting allows students to focus on expressing their thoughts and ideas without being hindered by the mechanics of writing. This cognitive freedom is believed to support higher-level reading and writing tasks, fostering a more engaging learning experience.
Moreover, for students with dyslexia, cursive writing presents specific advantages. Experts note that the continuous motion and flow involved in cursive writing can assist these students in developing their writing skills. By promoting fluidity in writing, the new standards aim to provide additional support for students who may struggle with traditional print writing.
The introduction of cursive writing is part of a broader set of updates to Georgia’s K-12 education curriculum that has been approved by the State Board of Education. This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the importance of diverse skill sets in preparing students for life after graduation, encompassing both technological literacy and traditional writing techniques.
In summary, starting in July 2025, Georgia schools will mandate cursive writing instruction for students in the third, fourth, and fifth grades, reviving an essential skill that was previously overlooked in many educational frameworks. The new standards aim to cultivate a more comprehensive approach to literacy, ensuring students are well-equipped for their future endeavors.
FAQ
What changes are being made to Georgia schools starting in July 2025?
Georgia’s new English Language Arts standards will emphasize handwriting, particularly cursive, beginning in July 2025.
Which grades will require cursive writing instruction?
Cursive instruction will be required for students in third, fourth, and fifth grades.
What will third graders learn regarding cursive writing?
The updated standards will introduce cursive writing to third graders, who will learn to read and write in cursive for the first time.
What progression in cursive writing will be expected in fourth and fifth grades?
By fourth and fifth grade, students will continue practicing cursive to build fluency and enhance their communication skills.
Why was cursive writing not included in previous standards?
The previous standards did not explicitly include handwriting instruction.
What is the reasoning behind the inclusion of cursive writing?
The importance of providing all students with a varied skill set for life after graduation is emphasized.
What are some concerns parents have regarding cursive writing instruction?
Some parents have concerns about the practicality of cursive instruction, suggesting students might benefit more from typing and technology skills.
What benefits does fluent handwriting offer according to specialists?
Fluent handwriting enhances writing fluency and supports spelling, allowing students to focus on expressing their ideas.
How does cursive writing help students with dyslexia?
Cursive writing promotes continuous motion and flow in writing, benefiting students with dyslexia.
What is the broader context for these changes?
The new standards are part of broader updates to Georgia’s K-12 education curriculum approved by the State Board of Education.
| Key Features of Cursive Writing Instruction | Details |
|---|---|
| Start Date | July 2025 |
| Grades Involved | Third, Fourth, Fifth |
| Focus | Handwriting, Cursive Writing, Communication Skills |
| Benefits | Enhanced writing fluency, Support for spelling, Assistance for students with dyslexia |
| Background | Part of broader K-12 education curriculum updates approved by the State Board of Education |
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Additional Resources
- MSN News: Cursive Writing Makes a Comeback in Georgia Schools
- WJBF: Georgia Schools Bring Back Cursive Writing This Fall
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Cursive Writing Making Comeback in Georgia Classrooms
- Atlanta News First: Cursive Lessons Return to Georgia Schools
- Grice Connect: Georgia Schools Bring Back Cursive Writing for Elementary Students
- Wikipedia: Cursive
- Google Search: cursive writing education
- Google Scholar: cursive writing benefits
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cursive Writing
- Google News: cursive writing georgia
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