Digital technology makes a lot of things simpler, but it’s also caused some cherished forms of communication—such as handwriting—to become almost obsolete. After Grade 1, the focus on handwriting gives way to more modern technologies like keyboarding.
While the debate on the importance of handwriting continues in most parts of the world, new evidence shows a strong correlation between handwriting and broader educational development. For example, studies show that children learn to read more quickly when they first learn to write by hand, and although typing is faster, the very act of handwriting forces students to focus on what’s important, making it easier to retain information. (Maria Konnikova, What’s Lost as Handwriting Fades, New York Times, June, 2016)
Not to mention the fact that handwritten letters, for instance, are more personal, giving students the ability to convey some of their personality with each cursive letter.
As more than 200 members of the International Olympic Committee gear up for travel to Rio de Janeiro this summer, the 2016 Summer Olympics provides an excellent opportunity for teachers to combine geography and language arts with a writing prompt that not only takes a look at the countries competing in the Games, but also attempts to reclaim the fading art of handwriting—if only for a couple of days.
Review this comprehensive list of competing countries and task students with learning more about each nation focusing on culture, climate, population, and any interesting facts and statistics about the country. Then, have students handwrite a letter to a fictional (or real, if you can swing it) pen pal. The letter should demonstrate that the student has some knowledge of the country, while providing comparisons and contrasts about his/her own country.
For students in France, this assignment won’t be difficult. There, handwriting is woven into the fabric of student learning. That’s because the French believe that giving children the ability to write will free their minds to perform creatively throughout their lives.
See how this theory is explored in this fascinating Teachers Media International video.
For those who want to keep up with technology, check out Microsoft’s “Skype in the Classroom” program to connect with a class from around the world—a great end of year activity.
How else could you combine language arts, geography, and the Olympics for a fun—and relevant—cross curricular activity?
See you Friday for another inspired activity that focuses on the nations that are set to compete on the global stage in the 2016 Rio Games.
~ The Teachers Media Team
teachersmedia 