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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can decide when to use cursive handwriting and can complete written tasks in cursive handwriting correctly.

      Key learning points

      1. Print and cursive are the two most common handwriting styles.
      2. Tasks that require speed and fluency should be completed in cursive handwriting.
      3. Tasks that require a personal or formal approach should be written in cursive handwriting.
      4. The cursive style of handwriting is often used for formal writing, such as letters, invitations and thank you notes.
      5. When writing in cursive, letter formation, spacing and using the correct joins ensure the writing is legible.

      Keywords

      • Cursive - a style of handwriting where the letters are joined together in a flowing and connected manner

      • Capital letter - the uppercase formation of a letter

      • Legible - clear and easy to read and understand

      • Formal - a style of writing which is serious and factual in tone

      Common misconception

      When children start to write quicker then they can begin to make more mistakes with the formation of their letters.

      Remind the children of the importance of finding their balance between speed and accuracy. Model reviewing your writing so the children can become familiar with checking the legibility of their writing.

      Teacher tip

      Throughout other lessons, ask the children if they should complete their writing in print or cursive handwriting. This can encourage them to start to think about when and why they would use cursive.

      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.
      How many cursive letter joins are there?

      Correct Answer: four, 4, Four

      Q2.
      Which letter string is using the fourth join?

      the
      Correct answer: wolf
      at
      moon

      Q3.
      Which letter strings use the third join?

      the
      Correct answer: dog
      Correct answer: moon
      at

      Q4.
      Which letter strings use the third and fourth joins?

      mean
      Correct answer: wolf
      Correct answer: howled
      dig

      Q5.
      True or false? This is an example of a speech first sentence.

      An image in a quiz
      Correct Answer: false, False

      Q6.
      A pair of punctuation marks that signal direct speech to the reader are called...

      exclamation marks.
      Correct answer: inverted commas.
      full stops.
      question marks.

      To help you plan your 6 English lesson on: Handwriting for a particular task, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...