lesson
Show who something belongs to
1 · Learn
For one child, write the child's coat. For several children, write the children's coats. Children is already plural, so add apostrophe-s.
For a regular plural ending in s, place the apostrophe after that s: the girls' bags. Decide how many owners there are before placing the mark. An apostrophe is not normally used just to make a plural.
2 · Worked example
I write 'the dogs' bowls' for bowls belonging to several dogs. 'Dogs' without an apostrophe is simply the plural noun.
3 · Your turn
Write a phrase for toys belonging to several children. Write a phrase for books belonging to several teachers.
Check your answer
The children's toys; the teachers' books.
4 · Apply your learning
Draw one owner and several owners, label what belongs to them, and explain each apostrophe position.
Adult guidance and safety
Read and discuss whole books, poems and plays alongside these original short models. Give evidence for interpretations and accept well-supported alternatives. Revisit spelling and handwriting over time; retain individual decoding support where needed.
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