in one group; i should be taught before y because it is simpler to form and is needed more frequently to write words. Separate reversible letters such as b and d . Children appear less likely to confuse visually similar letters if they have learned one letter of a confusable pair well prior to introduction of the other letter of the pair. In addition, it can be helpful to teach children to form confusable letters differently; for example, b starts at the top whereas d starts with the loop. Use written arrow cues to help children remember how to form letters. Especially when the teacher is working with large groups of youngsters, monitoring each child while he or she is writing may be difficult. Written arrow cues for tracing dotted letters and copying letters are important so that children do not inadvertently practice incorrect letter formation repeatedly. For children at beginning stages of reading and spelling, integrate handwriting instruction with instruction in letter sounds. For instance, while children are practicing writing a given letter, they can also be saying the sound the letter makes. In teaching cursive, explicitly teach connections between letters as well as formation of single letters. Unlike manuscript writing, cursive writing involves making connections between letters within a word. Once children can form individual letters, explicit teaching of letter connections is important. Connections involving four letters ? cursive b , o , v , and w ? followed by a subsequent letter (e.g., as in the words