In this lesson, we will practise /k/ consonant blends. We will learn the pronunciation of words that contain the initial consonant blends /sk/, /kl/, /kr/. We will also learn and practise words contain final consonant blends /kt/ and /lk/.
What is a Consonant Blend?
A consonant blend is when two or more consonants are blended together, but each sound may still be heard in the blend as a unique sound. The most common beginning consonant blends include: bl, br, cl, cr, dr, fr, tr, fl, gl, gr, pl, pr, sl, sm, sp and st. Blends can also occur at the end of words as in the word “last”. There are also blends which contain three consonants.
As well as practising individual phonemes to improve their pronunciation, students also need to practise consonant blends, which are more complex in terms of pronunciation.
Practise Your English Pronunciation: Consonant Blends with /k/
- consonant cluster <scu> is usually pronounced with the /ʌ/ vowel:
scum scuff scurry sculpt scuffle
- consonant cluster <cl> spelling is pronounced /kl/:
clap clasp clown clock clean
- consonant cluster <cr> spelling is pronounced /kr/:
crown crow cream create cry
- final consonant cluster /ct/ spelling is pronounced /kt/
act direct fact object elect
- in <lc> medial words, the /l/ and /k/ are in separate syllables:
falcon alcove welcome alcohol volcano
- in <rc> medial words, the /r/ and /k/ are in separate syllables. Note: /r/ is not pronounced in Standard British English
circuit circus Arctic narcotic arcade
Practice /k/ Spelt ‘c’: Some Examples from the Lesson Recording:
scuff: skidding scuffs your shoes
clean: clean clogs
cream: the cream of the crop
insect: infested with infectious insects
Extend Your Learning
◼️ Pronunciation of /k/ Part One HERE.
◼️ Pronunciation of /k/ Part Three HERE.
◼️ Pronunciation of /k/ Part Four HERE.
◼️ Learn more about consonant clusters in English HERE.
Want to speak clear and confident English? ▶︎ https://clearaccent.co.uk ✔︎
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Comments are closed.