Skip to content

Study Hub

Study Guides

This pupil-friendly study guide includes a unit summary, clear notes, common mistakes, and quick questions with answers.

Year 6 - English

Deciding between pen or pencil

Building fluency with note taking, choice, quotations and emphasis

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils practise note-taking and choose between pen or pencil for different tasks. They write famous quotations in cursive and learn different techniques to write with emphasis. Pupils also learn which type of handwriting is most appropriate for a given task or purpose.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to decide which tool is best suited for the purpose.

Key Notes

  • Pen and pencil are the most common tools used to write or draw with.
  • Making a choice between pen and pencil depends on the task and the desired outcome.
  • Using a pencil allows for mistakes to be corrected easily with an eraser, which is ideal for sketching and drafting.
  • Using a pen is ideal for final drafts as pen is permanent and looks neat and professional.
  • Over time you will develop a personal preference for using pen or pencil.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • pen: a writing tool used to apply ink to a surface
  • pencil: a writing or drawing tool typically consisting of a thin cylindrical stick of graphite
  • mistake: an error in accuracy or correctness
  • presentation: the structured way to communicate information

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Some children can become concerned that there are rules about when to use a pen and when to use a pencil. This can slow them down and take the focus from the task.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

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

Pen and pencil are the most common tools used to write or draw with. Making a choice between pen and pencil depends on the task and the desired outcome.

2. Define this language term and use it in a sentence. 'pen'

a writing tool used to apply ink to a surface.

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: Some children can become concerned that there are rules about when to use a pen and when to use a pencil. This can slow them down and take the focus from the task. Correction: Remind the children of the questions in this lesson. What are the attributes of the tools and which is best suited for the task? Remind them that there are no set rules and sometimes it can come down to personal preference.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 6 English guide library.