It was always my understanding that the “examples” provided at any grade level for any specific learning expectation were based on what students should be able to do at that particular grade level.
On page 72 of the current Ontario Ministry Policy document for Language Arts the example provided for Grade 3 Expectation 3.7 says (e.g. use legible printing and some cursive writing, etc.) it is incumbent on teachers to make sure that students are able to do all of the examples provided.
Teachers are required to assess students’ knowledge and skills and provide instruction and practice so that students can acquire and master them. Cursive writing is included in every 3.7 learning expectation from Grades 3 through Grade 8 in the Ontario Language Arts policy document.
There is definitely an expectation that cursive writing be taught in Ontario schools. Cursive writing was used as an example rather than as a separate learning expectation to underscore the need for students to master a range of ways to communicate including the use of technology.
Read more.
Interestingly enough, I've yet to find a teacher who interprets the text as it's explained above.
*sigh*
