I don't know what that means; everyone's cursive is different, unless they're using some formalised script such as copperplate.

[Edit] Have you ever watched someone writing copperplate with a nib? It takes forever. It seems to take about a minute PER WORD. It's beautiful, artistic script, and rather easy to read; but it's not much good for my shopping list, or my telephone notes, or my resignation letter.

I do, and I have to agree with the parent. The only time I ever read cursive is the occasional note from my grandparents.

Yes, but I almost never have to use that skill. It is pretty pointless unless you are doing historical research and then there are more scripts that are useful to know.