What Are Silent Letters?
Silent letters are letters in a word that are not pronounced. These letters can be tricky for learners, as they can change how a word looks and sounds. Learning about silent letters is essential for spelling words correctly and for improving pronunciation.
Examples of Silent Letters
Here are some common examples of words that include silent letters:
- k in knife (pronounced 'nife')
- b in debt (pronounced 'det')
- w in wrestle (pronounced 'restle')
- h in honest (pronounced 'onest')
- g in gnome (pronounced 'nome')
Why Do Silent Letters Exist?
Silent letters often have historical roots. Many English words come from other languages, and sometimes the way we pronounce them has changed over time. Knowing the history of a word can help us remember how to spell it correctly. For example, the word knight has its origins in Old English, where the 'k' was pronounced.
How to Learn Silent Letters
Learning silent letters can be fun and engaging! Here are some effective strategies:
- Flashcards: Create flashcards featuring words with silent letters. This makes it easy to quiz yourself.
- Reading Practice: Choose books that include words with silent letters. This helps you see and hear the words in context.
- Writing Exercises: Write sentences that use words with silent letters. This reinforces learning through writing.
- Games and Activities: Play word games that challenge you to find silent letters, making learning enjoyable.
Join KwizEd for More Learning!
Understanding silent letters is a vital skill. By practicing the strategies mentioned above, you can improve your spelling and pronunciation. For even more learning opportunities, consider registering on the KwizEd app! With KwizEd, you can create an account to access engaging activities that reinforce your understanding of silent letters and many other topics. Start your learning journey today!
Conclusion
Mastering silent letters is important for spelling and pronunciation. With practice and the right resources, anyone can become proficient in recognizing and using them.
The Sneaky Silent Letters!
Letters That Hide… But
Change the Word!
What Are Silent Letters?
A silent letter is a letter in a word that
you don’t say when you read the word out loud — but
it’s still there when you spell it.
Example:
- You say it: knight
- You spell it: k-n-i-g-h-t
Silent letters are like ninjas — quiet but important!
Common Silent Letters
| Silent Letter | Example Words | Trick to Remember |
|---|---|---|
| K | knight, knee, knock | Silent when before N |
| W | write, wrist, wrong | Silent before R |
| B | lamb, thumb, climb | Silent after M at the end |
| G | gnome, sign, gnaw | Silent before N |
| T | listen, castle, often | Often silent in the middle — just learn it! |
Can you find more words with silent letters?
Why Do Silent Letters Exist?
Silent letters come from Old English, French, or
Latin.
People used to say them — but over time, pronunciation changed.
For example:
- Knight = old word for soldier/servant
- The “K” used to be pronounced
Fun Learning Tricks
| Trick | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| Chunk it | Break it down: knee = k + nee |
| Say it “wrong” to learn | Say “k-nock” to remember the silent K |
| Create a rhyme or song | “The silent W in write takes flight!” |
| Draw the word | Colour the silent letter in a different colour |
Quiz Time
Test your knowledge!
- Which letter is silent in gnome?
-
- G
-
- N
-
- E
-
- Fill in the word: _ _ nee
-
- K
-
- C
-
- G
-
- True or False: The “B” in climb is silent.
-
- True
-
- False
-
Score 3/3 and become a Spelling Star!
Silly Sentences Challenge
Can you spot the silent letter in each sentence?
- The knight climbed a tree with his lamb.
- Write your name with your wrist.
- Can you listen to the gnome sing?
Point out the silent letters with a friend or teacher!
Learn More with KwizEd
- Aligned with the Key Stage 2 English Curriculum
- Practice tricky spellings, play games, and boost your grammar
- Visit KwizEd.co.uk to start
learning today
