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      The third join: os, rm, wi with no lead in

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can correctly form the third join.

      Key learning points

      1. The letters are formed by following the right starting point and direction.
      2. The third join starts at the x-height line and dips below the x-height line and back up to join the next letter.
      3. The letter strings are all x-height letters.
      4. When using the third join you leave enough space to ensure the letters are not touching without leaving a big gap.
      5. You don't lift your pencil until the letter string is complete. The dot for the i is added at the end.

      Keywords

      • Join - how things connect

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

      • Starting point - the point the formation of a letter begins on the tramlines

      • Dips below - dropping under something

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

      Common misconception

      Children can struggle to judge the gap between the two letters with this join. Either making it too small or too big.

      Lots of modelling to demonstrate to the children will help with this. Also showing them incorrect formations where the gap is too small or too big will help.

      Teacher tip

      Consistent practice is crucial. Short, daily practice sessions are more effective than longer, less frequent ones.

      Content guidance

      Risk assessment required - physical activity

      Supervision

      Adult supervision required

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), 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.
      The dotted line on the tramlines is called the...

      An image in a quiz
      ascender line.
      descender line.
      baseline.
      Correct answer: x-height line.

      Q2.
      Select the correct formation of the second join ik.

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

      Q3.
      Select the correct formation of the second join il.

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

      Q4.
      Select the correct formation of the second join it.

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

      Q5.
      Select the correct formation of the second join ul.

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

      Q6.
      Which join is being used in this picture?

      An image in a quiz
      first join
      Correct answer: second join
      third join

      To help you plan your 2 English lesson on: The third join: os, rm, wi with no lead in, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...