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Year 1 - English

Formation of v,w, x and z

Writing lower case letters in print

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils learn to sit comfortably and hold a pencil correctly. They learn handwriting patterns to help with letter formation and how to form all 26 lowercase letters in print. Finally, pupils practise forming letters in different letter families, for example ascenders and descenders.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to form the letters v, w, x and z.

Key Notes

  • The letters v, w, x and z are all x-height letters.
  • The letters v and w are formed by "going diagonally down and back up".
  • The letter x is formed by making two diagonal straight lines crossing in the centre.
  • The letter z is formed by a zigzag pattern with a straight, then diagonal and then a straight line.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • x-height letter: letters that reach the middle height on the line
  • diagonal line: a line that slants or leans
  • straight line: a line that doesn't curve or bend
  • zigzag: connected diagonal lines that alternate in direction

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • There is a tendency for children to form the letter z backwards.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain this English learning goal in two key points.

The letters v, w, x and z are all x-height letters. The letters v and w are formed by "going diagonally down and back up".

2. Define this language term and use it in a sentence. 'x-height letter'

letters that reach the middle height on the line.

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: There is a tendency for children to form the letter z backwards. Correction: Model with directions in the room - 'straight across towards the door, diagonally back to the window, straight across to the door again'.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 1 English guide library.