F▪am▪i▪ly Phonics

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Terms

The following list describes labels and terms used in these handwriting pages.

Basic Print

This basic block printing style teaches the most basic printing skills. This style is one of the "ball and stick" letter styles. Letters are similar in style to basic fonts used in beginning reading materials, which reinforces the visual discrimination skills used in reading. Good for learning printed letters. Difficult for transitioning to cursive. Most workbooks also use a similar style. (See discussion.)

Italic

A classic, elegant style of writing developed in Italy during the Renaissance. Transition to a cursive form of italic is very smooth. (See discussion.)

Dot Trace

Provides close numerous points per letter forming almost a continuous line to trace.

Dash Trace

Provides larger gaps to trace, but also smoother curves.

Hollow Trace

Gives strong visual representation of the letters, and provides visual guidance for student to keep inside the lines. Alternative to tracing over dots or dashes.

Beginning Dot Only

These styles indicate only the starting point for making each letter.