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The third join: oe, we, os, rs

Lesson details

Learning outcome

I can correctly form the fourth join.

Key learning points

  1. The letters all have a lead in and a lead out.
  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. When connecting the letter e, with the third join, the dip down starts the formation of the letter e.
  4. The pencil does not lift when forming the join.
  5. When using the third join you leave enough space to ensure the letters are not touching without leaving a big gap.

Keywords

  • Join - connecting together

  • Lead in - the stroke or line that guides us into starting a letter

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

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

  • Dip down - dropping under something

Common misconception

The dip down for the third join can be challenging at first, especially when joining to the letter e.

Model with emphasis the dip down so that children can see its importance and purpose. Give them time to really look at the join to the letter e. Allow them to realise themselves that the dip down begins the formation of the letter e.

Teacher tip

Teach children to recognise and correct their own mistakes. This not only improves their writing but also builds their confidence.

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.
Cursive handwriting is also known as ...

print.
Correct answer: joined-up handwriting.
upper case letters only.

Q2.
Select the correct join formation.

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 join formation.

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

Q4.
Select the correct join formation.

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

Q5.
Select the correct join formation.

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

Q6.
Select the options where you would use the third join.

the letter o joining to the letter l
Correct answer: the letter o joining to the letter e
Correct answer: the letter v joining to the letter e
the letter a joining to the letter s

To help you plan your 3 English lesson on: The third join: oe, we, os, rs, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...