B2. Alphabetic Knowledge
Alphabetic knowledge refers to knowing the letters by name and understanding alphabetic order.
During Grade 2, the focus was on:
- Building fluency with printing
Note: this expectation is found in the D strand “D2.2 print legibly and fluently, with appropriate formation patterns, size, placement, and spacing” However, as this is a continuation of the Grade 1 B2 letter formation expectations, we have included it here.
New for Grade 3:
- Begin to write in cursive
Note: this expectation is found in the D strand “D2.2 begin to write in cursive, forming letters with appropriate formation patterns, size, placement, and spacing” However, as this is a continuation of the Grade 1 B2 letter formation expectations, we have included it here.
Note: This is not an exhaustive list of all expectations in this strand. For a more detailed view, please see the official Ontario curriculum.
Further Reading
- Is handwriting actually important for writing? (Joan Sedita)
- The importance of teaching handwriting (Dr. Spear-Swerling)
Suggested Resources
- OCDSB Cursive Writing Resources
- Printing Like a Pro Program
- Daily Pen Review
- How to teach letter formation
- An overview of handwriting and letter formation
- Letter formation desk cards
- Search ‘Alphabetic Knowledge’ or ‘Handwriting’ in the Resource Library for more!
