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      The fourth join: ol, ok and of with no lead in

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can correctly form the fourth join.

      Key learning points

      1. The letters are formed by following the right starting point and direction.
      2. The fourth join goes from the x-height line up towards the ascender line.
      3. The letter f has a lead in and a lead out loop for joining.
      4. The pencil does not lift in between the beginning and end of a letter string or word.
      5. The letters l, k and f all reach up to the ascender line.

      Keywords

      • Join - how things connect

      • Lead out - the stroke or line that guides us to smoothly finish a letter

      • Ascender line - this is the top line of the tramlines

      • X-height line - the line that x-height letters reach

      • Loop - a rounded shape made in certain letters

      Common misconception

      Children can struggle with the shape and size of the loop for the lead in and lead out when joining the letter f.

      More tracing practice will support children to get a feel for the size and shape of the loop.

      Teacher tip

      Pattern practice is important before attempting loops so ensure to spend time practising the looped pattern within the warm up.

      Content guidance

      Risk assessment required - physical activity

      Supervision

      Adult supervision required

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      Select the correct formation of the third join oo.

      Correct Answer: An image in a quiz
      An image in a quiz
      An image in a quiz
      An image in a quiz

      Q2.
      Select the correct formation of the third join wa.

      An image in a quiz
      An image in a quiz
      Correct Answer: An image in a quiz
      An image in a quiz

      Q3.
      Select the correct formation of the third join wo.

      An image in a quiz
      Correct Answer: An image in a quiz
      An image in a quiz
      An image in a quiz

      Q4.
      True or false? Cursive letter joins refer to how letters connect together.

      Correct Answer: True, true

      Q5.
      Select the correct examples of the first join.

      Correct Answer: An image in a quiz
      An image in a quiz
      An image in a quiz
      Correct Answer: An image in a quiz
      An image in a quiz

      Q6.
      Select the correct example of the second join.

      An image in a quiz
      Correct Answer: An image in a quiz
      An image in a quiz
      Correct Answer: An image in a quiz
      An image in a quiz

      To help you plan your 2 English lesson on: The fourth join: ol, ok and of with no lead in, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...