ESL Phonics Lessons: The Letter N

Welcome to our beginner phonics lesson on the letter N! This ESL phonics lesson is tailored to introduce young learners and ESL students to the sound and usage of the letter N. Phonics is crucial for developing foundational reading and writing skills. Mastering the letter N helps learners decode words effectively, improve reading fluency, and build confidence in their language abilities. Let’s explore the letter N, its sounds, and engaging activities to reinforce learning.

ESL Phonics: Understanding the Letter N

The letter N is the fourteenth letter of the English alphabet and is classified as a consonant. It appears in both uppercase (N) and lowercase (n) forms. The primary sound associated with the letter N is the /n/ sound, as heard in words like “nose” and “nest.”

ESL Phonics: The Sound of the Letter N

The letter N produces a voiced sound, meaning it is articulated with vibration of the vocal cords. To pronounce the /n/ sound correctly, position the tongue against the ridge behind the upper front teeth, allowing the air to pass through the nose. This sound can occur at the beginning, middle, or end of words. Here are some examples:

• Beginning: Nose, Nest, Net, Nut, Nurse
• Middle: Banana, Monday, Winner, Dinner, Running
• End: Fun, Sun, Rain, Green, Open

The ESL phonics lesson below includes an introduction to the letter N, with several words, a sentence, and a page to practice tracing this letter. Students then practice tracing the letter N to complete several words in sentences. After completing this ESL phonics lesson, students should have a basic, functional understanding of the letter N, including its shape, capital and lowercase forms, and its positioning in sentences. Download this lesson for free, and you can also download our entire book of ESL phonics lessons on the alphabet, Phonics Monster: The Alphabet.