Winter 2022, Paper 2, Variant 2, Sample Answer (Question 1)

Question 1
Imagine that schools in your area are considering either introducing or abandoning handwriting
lessons for all younger students. You have been invited to speak at a meeting of teachers and
parents to discuss the idea.
Write the words of your speech.
In your speech you should:
• evaluate the ideas, attitudes and opinions given in both texts about handwriting and keyboard
skills
• give your own views, based on what you have read, about whether or not handwriting lessons
in school are a good idea.
Base your speech on what you have read in both texts, but be careful to use your own words.
Address both of the bullet points.
Write about 250 to 350 words.
Up to 15 marks are available for the content of your answer, and up to 25 marks for the
quality of your writing.

In today’s digital age, the debate between maintaining traditional handwriting lessons and focusing solely on keyboard skills is more relevant than ever. This discussion is not merely about choosing between pens and keyboards; it’s about understanding the broader implications of these choices on our children’s cognitive development, cultural heritage, and interpersonal connections.

Handwriting is not an outdated skill but a fundamental aspect of our educational systems that supports cognitive development and emotional expression. Research suggests that handwriting engages different parts of the brain in ways that typing does not, fostering creativity, memory retention, and fine motor skills development. The tactile experience of pen on paper offers a unique sensory engagement, aiding in the learning and retention process. It’s a complex task that involves a coordination of cognitive skills, providing a brain workout that typing cannot replicate.