Y6 Formal and Informal Language Make a Match - KS2 Grammar Games

This ‘Make a Match’ game is a fun way for pupils in Y6 to match formal and informal words and phrases. It could be used to support pupils understanding before writing informal or formal letters in KS2.

The game can be played as a class or in small groups and is perfect for adult led interventions to revisit key knowledge and skills.

What is included in this formal and informal language resource pack?

• 40 Make a Match word/phrase cards
• 2 Make a Match heading cards

What is formal writing?

Formal writing is used in situations that are serious or involve people we don’t know well. Some spoken English can also be formal, such as a speech or a lecture.

Formal writing examples

• We went to London for the day. We have a lot of things to tell you.
• It was raining very heavily.
• Scientists discovered a new species of insect.
• The teacher requested that the pupils enter the classroom.

What is informal writing?

Informal writing is used in relaxed situations with people we know well. It is common to use informal language when we speak.

Informal writing examples

• Went to London for the day. Lots to tell you.
• It was raining cats and dogs
• Scientists found a new type of insect.
• The teacher asked the pupils to go into the classroom.

National Curriculum English programme of study links

Spoken Language

Pupils should be taught to select and use appropriate registers for effective communication.

Year 3/4 Writing - composition

Pupils should evaluate and edit by assessing the effectiveness of their own and others’ writing and suggesting improvements.

Year 5/6 Writing - composition

Pupils should be taught to evaluate and edit by ...distinguishing between the language of speech and writing and choosing the appropriate register.

Year 6 (Appendix 2)

The difference between structures typical of informal speech and structures for more formal speech and writing ...

This resource is part of the Grammar Games collection.
View more from this collection

• Teacher notes
• Sentence cards
• Heading cards