Christianbook.comDescription
The BJU Press Handwriting 2 Teacher’s Edition serves as an essential bridge between foundational printing skills and fluent cursive writing, making it a cornerstone resource for second-grade homeschooling families. This comprehensive 176-page spiral-bound guide empowers parents to confidently teach both PreCursive and cursive handwriting using BJU Press’s proven methodology that has helped thousands of homeschooled children develop beautiful, legible handwriting.
What sets this teacher’s edition apart is its detailed approach to the critical transition year when children move from print to cursive writing. The guide features comprehensive letter formation diagrams for both PreCursive and cursive alphabets, complete with step-by-step instructions that make teaching handwriting accessible even for parents who feel uncertain about their own penmanship. Each lesson includes clear presentation methods, discussion prompts, and pre-assessment strategies that help you gauge your child’s readiness and progress.
The PreCursive method used by BJU Press creates a natural pathway to cursive writing by teaching slanted print letters that share many characteristics with cursive forms. This approach significantly eases the transition to cursive, reducing frustration and building confidence in young writers. Unlike traditional print, PreCursive letters flow more naturally into cursive, making the progression feel seamless rather than like learning an entirely new alphabet system.
Student workbook pages are reproduced directly in the teacher’s edition, allowing you to see exactly what your child is working on while following along with the detailed instructional guidance. The program incorporates meaningful content including Scripture verses, poetry, and character-building themes that align with Christian values while providing rich context for handwriting practice. This integration helps children understand that handwriting serves a purpose beyond mere penmanship as they copy Bible verses and uplifting literature.
Recent neuroscience research validates the critical importance of handwriting instruction, showing that children who learn to write by hand develop stronger neural pathways for reading, memory, and learning compared to those who primarily use keyboards. Studies demonstrate that handwriting activates broader brain connectivity, enhancing memory formation and improving letter recognition skills that directly support reading development. For homeschooling families, this means that investing time in quality handwriting instruction pays dividends across all academic subjects.
The teacher’s edition includes optional supplementary activities that allow you to customize instruction based on your child’s needs and interests. Whether your student needs extra practice with specific letter formations or is ready for additional challenges, the flexible format accommodates different learning paces and styles. The program also provides guidance on proper posture, pencil grip, and paper positioning to establish healthy writing habits from the beginning.
This resource proves invaluable for homeschooling parents who want to provide excellent handwriting instruction without extensive training in teaching methodology. The clear explanations and visual guides make it possible for any parent to successfully guide their child through this crucial developmental stage, building skills that will serve them throughout their academic journey and beyond.
Aop.com
The Homeschool Shopper –
The BJU Press Handwriting 2 Teacher’s Edition stands out as an exceptional handwriting curriculum that successfully bridges the gap between print and cursive writing. This comprehensive program introduces students to Timothy Time, an engaging character who makes the transition from pre-cursive letters to cursive writing both fun and systematic.
What We Liked
Methodical Approach to Cursive Transition: BJU Press has developed a brilliant system where cursive letters are taught by simply adding strokes to pre-cursive letters. This logical progression makes the traditionally challenging transition to cursive feel natural and achievable for second graders.
High-Quality Educational Design: The full-color workbooks are visually appealing and professionally designed. The use of shaded, slanted gray sections on lines helps students maintain proper letter slant and formation—a thoughtful detail that sets this curriculum apart from competitors.
Biblical Integration Done Right: Unlike curricula that simply add Bible verses as content, BJU Press weaves Christian character development and biblical principles naturally throughout the lessons. Practice sentences include Scripture, poetry, and the Pledge of Allegiance, providing meaningful content for handwriting practice.
Teacher Support Excellence: The Teacher’s Edition provides step-by-step lesson instructions, discussion points, and clear guidance for parents who may not feel confident teaching handwriting. The spiral-bound format makes it convenient for daily use.
Character Engagement: Timothy Time serves as an effective mascot, making letter formation and handwriting activities enjoyable rather than tedious. Students consistently respond positively to this character-driven approach.
Areas for Improvement
Limited Secular Appeal: Families seeking non-religious content may find the biblical integration limiting, though the actual handwriting instruction remains pedagogically sound regardless of worldview.
Pace Considerations: Some students may need additional practice time or supplementary worksheets, as the curriculum moves at a steady pace that may challenge students with fine motor difficulties.
Assessment Tools: While the program teaches effectively, additional formal assessment rubrics for parents to track progress would enhance the educational experience.
Bottom Line
BJU Press Handwriting 2 Teacher’s Edition delivers outstanding results through its systematic, engaging approach to cursive instruction. The combination of solid educational methodology, appealing visual design, and meaningful practice content creates a handwriting program that both teachers and students can embrace confidently. While the biblical worldview may not suit every family, the quality of handwriting instruction is undeniably excellent.
Recommended for: Christian homeschool families, students transitioning to cursive, parents seeking structured handwriting instruction, teachers wanting clear guidance
Consider alternatives if: You prefer secular content, need extensive fine motor skill development, or want completely independent student work
Price Point: Excellent value for the comprehensive teacher support and student engagement provided