The C or K Rule?
One of the most frequently asked questions that I get is: How do we know when it’s c ,k or ck. AND why does /c/ sound like /s/ sometimes?
So lets understand the rule and at the end of the page don’t forget to collect the free poster and worksheets.
So what is the rule?
At the beginning we use c or k for /k/ sound.
We use C when we have an A, O, or U after the /k/ sound. We use K when we have an e or i after the /k/sound.
Look at this picture to understand the rule.
At the end of the words it could be c, k , ck or ke for /k/ sound.
When the word contains a short vowel, it will end with CK. Here are a few examples: DUCK, STUCK, DOCK, SOCK, CLICK, FLICK, SACK.
When the word contains a long vowel, it ends with KE. Here are a few examples: DUKE, PUKE, POKE, BLOKE, TAKE, MAKE, BIKE, LIKE.
We use C at the end of a word with 2 or more syllables. Think PICNIC, LOGIC, ARCTIC, COSMIC, DYNAMIC, ATHLETIC
We use K at the end of a word when it contains a vowel digraph (a double vowel). BOOK, LOOK, COOK, SEEK, CHEEK, MEEK, CREEK, GREEK.
Why Does /C/ Sound Like /S/ Sometimes?
When the sounds e, i or y come after /c/ it sounds like /s/. /C/ sounds like /k/ after any other letter!
Here are the anchor charts explaining c and k rule. All these anchor charts and worksheet are free for download for classroom use or to use them at home but do not use them commercially.
