Writing the Letters of the Alphabet

Objective: Write the letters of the alphabet. Write one's own name.
Materials: Chalk, erasers, pencils, etc., for each student. Flash cards with
each student's name on it.

Special Instructions:
    This lesson should be taught in sessions of 15-20 minutes each. Generally
    adults do not need to go through a stage of tracing letters as do young
    children. If, however, some have difficulty with the procedure described
    here, reproduce a few sheets with the letters outlined in dots and have the
    students trace around the dots.

    It may be necessary to show some adults how to hold a pencil. Also, the
    teacher should encourage students to write the letters so that they are
    uniform in size, slant and spacing.

Procedure:
    Have each student find a space at the chalkboard. (If there is not enough
    space, some students can work at their seats. Students should alternate so
    that eventually all get to work at the board).
    Demonstrate the writing of the letter "A" with two vertical strokes and one
    horizontal. Have the students draw the letter several times while the
    teacher checks their work.

    Repeat step #2 with the upper case "B".

    Dictate the letters "A" and "B" and have the students write them as you
    dictate.

    Repeat steps #3 and #4 with each new letter, each time reviewing previously
    taught letters.

    Have students repeat steps #2-5 using lined paper and pencils.

    After you have completed the upper case letters, repeat the same procedures
    with the lower case letter.

    Distribute flash cards with the students' names on them and have each copy
    his name on the board and/or on paper.