English // Grammar & Punctuation

Choosing A or An

Use the correct form of the indefinite article — 'a' before words beginning with a consonant sound and 'an' before words beginning with a vowel sound (e.g., a rock, an open box, an hour, a unicorn)

Ages
7 to 8
Type
Language
Builds on
2 topics
Leads to
0 topics
Standards
1 code

Quick check

When the learner writes, do they automatically choose "a" before a word that starts with a consonant sound and "an" before a vowel sound — like "a cat" but "an apple" or "an hour"?

Ask this to see whether the topic is secure.

Topic // Mastery

What mastery looks like

What a learner can do once this topic is secure.
  • Choose 'a' or 'an' correctly before nouns beginning with consonant or vowel sounds (e.g., 'a ball', 'an egg', 'an umbrella')
  • Apply the rule to tricky words where spelling and sound differ (e.g., 'an hour' because /h/ is silent, 'a uniform' because /juː/ starts with a consonant sound)
  • Correct errors in a/an usage in given sentences (e.g., change 'a orange' to 'an orange')

Topic // Map

Where this fits

What to learn first and what this topic opens up, with the reason for each link. Required links come first.
  • RequiredMust come first
  • HelpfulHelps, but not essential

Before this

2 topics
  • Determiners and articlesRequired

    Grammar & Punctuation // Ages 6 to 7

    A/an article choice builds on Y2 determiners understanding

  • Basic Nouns & VerbsHelpful

    Grammar & Punctuation // Ages 5 to 6

    Noun knowledge supports understanding article placement

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Choosing A or An

Ages 7 to 8 // Language

Leads to

0 topics

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Topic // Standards

Curriculum standards

Codes for the curriculum statements this topic maps to. Each publisher owns its standard text.
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document
Eng.App2.Y3.Word.2

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