Variations
What prints with the starting settings
| Paper | US Letter — 215.9 × 279.4 mm (8.5 × 11 in) |
|---|---|
| Writing height (top to baseline) | 15.88 mm = 5/8″ |
| Writing sets on this page | 9 |
| Midline (x-height) | 5/16″ |
| Margins | 1/2″ |
| Line weight | 0.25 mm (bold 0.35 mm) |
| Print setting | Scale 100% / Actual size |
Smaller, steadier letters
By second grade most children form letters correctly and are ready to write smaller and faster. Moving from 3/4 inch to 5/8 inch lines nudges handwriting toward its eventual size while keeping the support of the three-line guide. The dashed midline still shows where small letters stop, and the space below each line keeps descenders from colliding with the next row.
Practice ideas
- Copywork: a short poem or sentence copied neatly, line by line.
- Spelling: each word written three times with consistent letter sizes.
- Journals: daily sentences about the weekend or a book.
- Cursive starters: with the slant variation, practice the first joined letters.
Choosing the next size
If children still struggle with letter heights, step back to first grade 3/4 inch paper. When their writing fits comfortably, move on to third grade 1/2 inch paper. For tracing practice, try the name tracing maker.
Printing
Print at 100% / Actual size so the lines are exactly 5/8 inch.
More handwriting sheets
- First grade writing paper (3/4 inch lines)
- Kindergarten writing paper (1 inch lines)
- Cursive handwriting paper with slant lines
- Primary story paper
- Third grade handwriting paper (1/2 inch lines)
- Brush lettering practice sheets (28 mm lines)
- Tian zi ge (田字格) paper
- Copperplate calligraphy guide sheets (55° slant)
- Hindi writing practice paper
- Mi zi ge (米字格) paper
- Preschool writing paper (1 1/4 inch lines)
Frequently asked questions
Why 5/8 inch lines for second grade?
As handwriting gets smaller and more controlled, line height steps down. A common progression is about 1 inch in kindergarten, 3/4 inch in first grade, 5/8 inch in second and 1/2 inch in third, though programs vary.
How many writing lines are on a page?
Nine writing sets on Letter or A4, each with a top line, a dashed midline, a baseline and a space for descenders.
What is the dashed line for?
It marks the height of small letters like a, c, e and o. Tall letters reach the top line; g, j, p, q and y drop below the baseline.
Can I use it for cursive?
Yes. Many children begin cursive in second or third grade. Choose the slant variation for guide lines at 75 degrees.
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