lesson

Letters can be left out

Read with an adult. You can say, point, draw or write your answer.

1 · Learn

A contraction is a shortened form. An apostrophe shows where letters have been left out. Do not becomes don't.

The apostrophe is not decoration. In don't it marks the missing o from not. I am becomes I'm, with an apostrophe where the a was left out.

do not → don'tI am → I'mcannot → can't
Key words and supplied examples.

2 · Worked example

I read 'I don't know' as 'I do not know'. The meaning stays the same.

3 · Your turn

Write the full words for didn't and I'm.

Check your answer

Did not; I am.

4 · Apply your learning

Match shortened and full forms chosen by an adult. Say them in sentences before writing them.

Adult guidance and safety

Read instructions and shared texts aloud when needed. Independent reading must match taught sound-spelling knowledge; do not ask children to guess unknown words from pictures. Accept spoken answers before writing and revisit with more books and examples.

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