RESEARCH ON THE CALLIGRAPHY OF TWO HANDWRITING MODELS IN PRIMARY EDUCATION IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC

In the Czech Republic, pupils in elementary grades learn to write according to two handwriting models approved by the Ministry of Education of the Czech Republic. These models include the traditional model of joined-up linear handwriting; the other model, which was approved in 2010, is the Comenia Script. In this context, a support research study was carried out aimed at the adaptation and inclusion of the Comenia Script handwriting model in Czech schools. The paper describes the positives and negatives of the new handwriting model and its adaptation to teaching the Czech language, taking into account the development of literacy in primary school pupils. Regarding the possible variability of the graphemes in learning writing according to the Comenia Script handwriting model, a written text is often difficult for the pupils to read. In these cases the pupils are limited (disadvantaged) in acquiring information from a text, which they have difficulties reading. The selection of a suitable handwriting model is currently very topical, because also in some neighbouring countries (Germany, Slovakia) pupils have difficulties with non-joined handwriting and its graphical production, especially in the context of reading literacy (good legibility of own handwriting).
The main objective of the research study was to describe and analyse the handwriting of elementary school pupils according to the two existing handwriting models. The study is of a qualitative design using the method of text analysis. The research was based on research questions aimed at the technique of handwriting and the differences observed between the two handwriting models. The research questions related to the legibility of the texts. The research sample comprised pupils in the second grade who had already mastered the handwriting technique. The sample was recruited by means of deliberate sampling because both the joined-up linear handwriting as well as Comenia Script were monitored. At the same time, the authors analysed the differences between the upper case and lower case, breaking words at line ends, overall neatness and legibility of text and absence of diacritical marks.