New Hampshire Foundations of Reading Practice Test

Which strategy is recommended for teaching letter formation to students?

1. Using only worksheets for practice

2. Giving students letter stencils with pencils

3. Encouraging writing without any aids

4. Limiting practice to digital tools only

The correct answer is: Giving students letter stencils with pencils

Providing students with letter stencils and pencils supports their understanding of letter formation by giving them a concrete tool to guide their writing. This hands-on approach allows them to focus on the shape and structure of each letter, reinforcing muscle memory through repetition. Using stencils helps maintain correct letter proportions and makes the learning process more engaging. In this context, stencils serve as a transitional tool that can help bridge the gap between guided practice and independent writing, ensuring that students develop proper techniques before moving on to freehand writing. This method contrasts sharply with more restrictive practices, such as limiting practice to worksheets, which may not provide the tactile feedback that stencils do. It also encourages a balance between guided and independent practice rather than allowing students to write without aids or relying solely on digital tools, which could hinder their ability to grasp foundational handwriting skills.