Select letters or words for students to practice. Handwriting practice begins with letter formation, then branches on to words, and finally, sentences. Select material for students to practice that is age and skill level appropriate by examining state or district standards for writing at each grade level. Determine the skills students will need to know before creating the handwriting practice printable for that skill. For example, if the standard states that,"Students will write complete sentences," you should choose complete sentences for the handwriting practice, rather than letters or letter combinations that would be better suited to lower skill levels.
Use a PC and word processing software or computer paper and a pen to create wide-ruled practice sheets. You may either use the word processing software to create rows for practice that are the appropriate size, or you may wish to use a template that standardizes writing practice rows. Another method is to use pen and paper to create your own practice paper. Use a ruler to measure rows 1/2-inch wide and the length of the paper. In the middle of the each row (the 1/4-inch mark), draw a dotted horizontal line all the way across the paper,effectively making dashes at 1/8-inch intervals along the middle section of the whole row.
Draw practice example words, letters or phrases so that students can emulate correct letter and word formation. Draw an example of the word, letter or phrase you would like students to practice at the start of each row. If there is enough room, you may wish to draw just the dotted line of the word, or dashes showing what the word, letter or phrase should look like. Students then draw over the dashes, effectively copying correct formation of the letter, word or phrase before they practice on their own. Many teachers draw a perfect example, then a dotted line example, then leave room for students to write on their own as many times as space allows.