lesson
When c sounds like s
Read with an adult. You can say, point, draw or write your answer.
1 · Learn
Listen to city and cat. The first letter is c in both, but the sounds differ. In city, c sounds like s. In cat, it sounds like k.
The c before e, i or y often has the s sound: centre, city, cycle. Look at the next letter, then read the whole word. Do not change its spelling to s just because you hear that sound.
2 · Worked example
I read 'A mouse ran into the cellar.' In cellar, c is followed by e and has the s sound. I still write c at the start.
3 · Your turn
Which first c sounds like s: cold, circle, cup? What letter follows that c?
Check your answer
Circle. Its first c is followed by i.
4 · Apply your learning
Read cent, city and cycle with an adult. Underline ce, ci and cy. Say a short sentence using one word, then write it and check its c.
Adult guidance and safety
Read instructions and shared texts aloud when needed. Independent reading must match taught sound-spelling knowledge; do not ask children to guess unknown words from pictures. Accept spoken answers before writing and revisit with more books and examples.
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