Teaching Cursive Writing in Elementary Education: A Major Step Towards Enhancing Writing Literacy and Preserving Iranian Culture

The Culture and Art Department of the Office for Planning and Compilation of Elementary and Secondary School Textbooks, under the Educational Research and Planning Organization, has designed and compiled the "Cursive Writing Education" series specifically for the second level of elementary education, with the aim of strengthening foundational writing skills and improving the quality of elementary education.

Starting from the current academic year, cursive writing is being formally taught in the fourth grade, while the fifth and sixth grades are in the pilot implementation phase.

While maintaining a connection with traditional Iranian calligraphy, the cursive script adopts a practical approach. Its primary focus is on readability, speed, and everyday aesthetic writing, thereby playing a decisive role in solidifying students' writing literacy.

The educational content of these books is based on the following pillars:

• Correct instruction of letter and word formation based on the Nastaliq cursive script;

• Regular and purposeful exercises for the continuous improvement of handwriting;

• Enhancing fluent reading and writing abilities alongside speed and accuracy;

• Building and strengthening students' self-confidence in educational and social activities.

Experts from the Culture and Art Department emphasize that teaching cursive writing in elementary education not only instills the art of beautiful writing but also enhances the quality of learning in other subjects.

The Educational Research and Planning Organization hopes that with the expansion of this program in the coming years, a significant improvement in students' handwriting and a stronger connection with Iran's written culture will be witnessed.