Lesson 31: Jj /j/

What Will We Learn Today?

Today we’re learning the letter Jj, which spells the sound /j/—as in jam or jog. In this lesson, your child will learn how to say the /j/ sound, write uppercase and lowercase Jj, and blend and read short words, phrases, and connected sentences using this bouncy, voiced consonant.

How to Make the /j/ Sound

The /j/ sound is a voiced stop–affricate made near the front of the mouth.

Here’s how to help your child say it:

• Place the tip of the tongue just behind the top front teeth.

• Build up a little air pressure behind the tongue.

• Turn your voice on.

• Release the air in a quick burst: /j/

It’s the same sound as the beginning of jam or jet.

Articulate

Say it together:
“Let’s say /j/ like jelly jumping—/j/!”
Try it gently and slowly: /j… j… j/
Have your child feel the vibration in their throat as they say it.

How to Write the Letter Jj

Time to grab your whiteboard and marker!

Uppercase J

• Start at the top and draw a straight line going down.

• Curve it left at the bottom like a hook.

• Add a short line across the top.

Lowercase j

• Start just below the top line and draw a straight line down.

• Curve left at the bottom.

• Don’t forget to add a dot above the line.

Try tracing first, then writing independently. Use sensory tools like playdough or glitter glue for fun practice!

Download the presentation here:

https://www.canva.com/templates/EAGPvStOb6M-letter-jj-presentation/

Let’s Practice Reading Words

Blend and read these /j/ words:

jig – jab – jest – job – jam – jump – jet – jog – just

Model blending:
“/j/ – /ă/ – /m/” → jam
Then say it fluently.

Let’s Practice Reading Phrases

• just a jab

• do the jig

• jump and jog

• the hot jug

• jab and jump

• do the job

Encourage your child to read slowly, then smoothly.

Let’s Practice Reading Sentences

• The jug is red.

• The jet is fast.

• I jot the job on a list.

• Jump and jog to the top.

Ask:

• What did you hear that starts with /j/?

• What happened in the sentence?

Let’s Practice Reading Connected Sentences

I said, “Do not jab.”
“It is just a jest!” said Jen.
The jab is not fun.
I jump and run.
Jen and I just jog to the rug.
Jen and I do the jig.

Comprehension questions:

• Who said it was a jest?

• What did they do after?

• What words start with J?

Trace and Write

Use worksheets where your child can:

• Trace uppercase and lowercase Jj

• Write the letter independently

Download the Jj Worksheets Here:

https://www.canva.com/templates/EAE3jgoUiRE-letter-jj-alphabet-phonics-worksheets-in-pink-illustrative-style/

https://www.canva.com/templates/EAG4_6rZGJE-alphabet-letter-j-tracing-and-coloring-worksheets-in-black-and-white-illustrative-style/

Flashcards – Beginning Sound Focus

Use picture flashcards to reinforce the /j/ sound.

Examples:

• jam

• jug

• jog

• jet

Ask:

• “What sound do you hear at the start?”

• “Can you find another /j/ word?”

Download Jj Flashcards – Beginning Sound Set Here:

https://www.canva.com/templates/EAHA9WKR0Ww-letter-j-alphabet-flashcards-in-colourful-illustrative-style/

Conclusion

The /j/ sound is energetic and exciting—just like the words it begins! With clear articulation, writing practice, and engaging stories, your child will grow in confidence and fluency.

Ask your child: “Can you do a jig and say a /j/ word at the same time?”