Consonant Alternation
Hey there! Let's look at how consonant sounds can change when we add suffixes to words. This is called consonant alternation.
Let's start with an example. The word "sign" has a "g" sound. But when we add the suffix -al to get "signal", the "g" sound changes to a "j" sound.
Try saying "sign" and "signal" out loud and listen to the consonant change. Pretty cool right?
Now let's look at another pair:
The word "muscle" has a "c" sound. When we add the suffix -ar to make "muscular", the "c" changes to a "k" sound.
Say "muscle" and "muscular" and hear the difference.
Here are two more examples. Pronounce each word pair and notice the consonant alternation:
- Decorate (hard "c" sound)
- Decoration (soft "c" sound)
- Electric (hard "c" sound)
- Electricity (soft "c" sound)
So in summary, consonants can change or alternate their sounds when suffixes are added to words. Paying attention to consonant alternation will help you become an excellent speller!
Let's practice some more word pairs. Reply with any questions you have!
Practice Consonant Alternation
Read each pair of words. Circle the pair that has consonant alternation. Then write the letter that has a change in sound.
|
Pair 1 |
Pair 2 |
Letter
with Sound Change |
|
crumb/crumble |
flex/flexible |
|
|
love/lovable |
design/designate |
|
|
refuse/refusal |
office/official |
|
|
create/creation |
propose/proposal |
|
|
public/publicity |
suburb/suburban |
|