I think that learning to copy something verbatim is very important. Here's why:
1. When kids start subjects like algebra, they have to copy complex polynomials and suchlike from a textbook. If they don't get the information exactly right, they get the problem wrong.
2. This skill is also important when you have to copy directions to get from one location to another, when you have to pay a bill etc.
3. When made to copy something verbatim, you are forced to look at every detail of what you're copying. This helps develop attention to detail and hopefully makes the process become more second-nature.
That said, the teacher would do her students a big favor by explaining her reasons for having her students do this. When it was explained to my DS-then-7, his attitude about it changed and he started trying harder.
Just my two cents; take it for what it's worth.
Val
Last edited by Val; 08/28/08 10:27 PM.
