The writing sequence stage one presentation

How is this activity presented?

In the first stage of the writing sequence, the directress uses the Sandpaper letters, and a tray filled with either maize meal, flour, rice, etc. The directress begins by showing the child a letter, for example: ‘c’.

The directress traces ‘c’ on the sandpaper letter, she then shows the child how to trace it in the same manner in the maize meal using the correct pincer grip. The directress shakes the tray a little to make it smooth so the child can have a turn. (She ensures to use letters that she has already presented to the child).

What the child learns by doing this activity?

This activity helps the child to become more aware of letters, it improves the child’s formation of letters and this activity encourages the child to write with controlled movement.

How are the other stages presented for the writing sequence?

There are eight stages in this presentation, each one increases in difficulty. In stage two and three of the writing sequence, the activity is presented in a similar manner.

In stage two the directress uses either a blackboard, chalk and duster or a whiteboard, marker, and duster to write the letter on once they have traced it on the sandpaper board. In stage three the directress uses a blank piece of paper and a wax crayon.

The directress presents stages four, five, six, seven, and eight to the older child (4-5). In stage four of the writing sequence, the directress uses a lined felt mat and The large movable alphabet. She begins by showing the child how to place all the straight letters ( a, e, c, o, s, w, etc) between the lines. She then allows him to have a turn to place the letters in the same manner.

In stage five the directress uses the sandpaper letters, a lined blackboard, chalk, and a duster. She begins by showing him how to trace the sandpaper letter correctly, she then shows him how to write the straight letters between the lines on the blackboard.

In stage six of the writing sequence, the directress uses the Sandpaper letters, lined paper, and a pencil. She shows the child how to trace the sandpaper letters, she then shows him how to write the straight letters between the lines on the piece of paper (using the correct pincer grip).

In stage seven the directress repeats stages four, five, and six, in the same manner, using the upright letters of the alphabet (b, f, d, k, l, h, and t).

I stage eight of the writing sequence the directress repeats stages, four, five, and six, in the same manner, using the descending letters of the alphabet (p, q, y, j, and g).