Western Australian Targeting Handwriting

Book excerpt: These fun and inviting books have well-designed, uncluttered pages fo r the beginner writer. Other features of the Targeting Handwritin g WA Pre-Primary Student Book include: plenty of pre-writin g patterning exercises to help practise the basic movements required in letter formation and development of fine motor skills each lett er has two pages of tracing and tracking exercises with an attractive se ahorse character to introduce the positioning of letters within lines the letters are also cleverly featured within illustrations as a memory aid for students a seahorse character demonstrates the p ositioning of letters within lines, the number of strokes required for e ach letter is highlighted and the focus letter is also featured within a simple illustration as a memory aid for students a handy stude nt reference for pencil grip and paper position is included a f un and colourful alphabet is included Handwriting is one o f the most crucial skills students will develop in primary school. Targe ting Handwriting covers the handwriting curriculum in a clear and struct ured way, with content linked to Western Australian Strand Outcome State ments. To be competent writers, students' handwriting needs to be fluent and legible. The teaching of handwriting is an essential part of the wr iting curriculum. Regular practice, three to four times a week, in fine motor skills and in letter formation will ensure the development of good handwriting habits.