This study described the features of writing instruction in widely used kindergarten English Language Arts programs and examined their alignment with evidence-based, best-practice guidelines. Three popular curricula were selected for analyses: Reading Wonders, Journeys, and Reading Street. Our coding of teacher manuals focused on instructional…

"If it's not tested, it doesn't get taught" is the prevailing belief that guides many educators' practice of only teaching skills that are addressed in the latest governing standards. Most states have now adopted the Common Core State Standards (CCSS), which don't cover handwriting or spelling. Consequently, some states and school districts have…

This paper investigates the state of the art of handwriting and lists 11 recommendations that were made to improve handwriting instruction in one public school system's language arts curriculum. The following topics are discussed: historical perspectives of the art of handwriting, the nature of handwriting instruction, methods and approaches to…

Questionnaires were sent to 2,161 teachers and to administrators in 118 primary schools in the Brisbane North Region (Australia) to determine their attitudes toward the implementation of a new handwriting syllabus. The questionnaire also solicited information on educational experience, the importance of handwriting, the teaching of handwriting,…

The implementation of the National Literacy Strategy (NLS) began in English primary schools at the start of the autumn term, 1998. It was intended to bring about "a dramatic improvement in literacy standards," so that, by 2002, 80% of all 11 year olds should reach level 4 in English at the end of Key Stage 2 national curriculum tests.…

This survey of spelling research covers the subject from the 13th century to current areas needing research and indicates the findings of significant contributors to the field. Particular areas covered include the spelling curriculum; methods of spelling instruction; the relationship of spelling to reading, handwriting, speech, composition, and…

The reading program for the junior high special curriculum which is described uses a protective vocabulary of about 100 words and phrases, experience charts, incidental materials, and basal texts. Basic considerations of the functioning of mentally handicapped children are used in determining the scope of the program; instructions are given for…

Discussing various aspects of the language arts curriculum, this guide contains the following essays: (1) "Listening and the Child in the Language Arts Curriculum," which details a philosophy for teaching and learning in the language arts; (2) "Creative Writing in the Curriculum," which outlines ways teachers can help students achieve creatively;…