Find out why ‘ch’ makes 3 different sounds

Alphabets Sounds Video

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In this lesson, students learn that the letters “CH” can produce three distinct sounds in English: the “ch” sound as in “chip,” the “k” sound as in “echo,” and the “sh” sound as in “champagne.” This variation occurs due to the origins of the words, with some coming from Greek and others from French. By understanding these different sounds, students can enhance their reading skills and enjoy the challenge of identifying which sound “CH” makes in various words.
  1. What are the three different sounds that “CH” can make?
  2. Can you think of a word that has the “ch” sound? What about a word with the “k” sound?
  3. Why do you think “CH” can sound different in different words?

Discover the Three Sounds of “CH”

Did you know that the letters “CH” can make three different sounds in English? Let’s explore these sounds together!

The “Ch” Sound

Most of the time, when you see “CH” in a word, it makes the sound “ch,” like in the word “chip.” This is the sound you hear when you say “chocolate” or “cheese.” It’s a fun and bouncy sound!

The “K” Sound

Sometimes, “CH” sounds like “k.” This happens in words that come from Greek. For example, in the words “echo” and “school,” the “CH” sounds like “k.” Isn’t it interesting how the same letters can sound so different?

The “Sh” Sound

In some words borrowed from French, “CH” makes the sound “sh,” like in “champagne” and “machine.” It’s a smooth and soft sound, just like when you say “shoes” or “shampoo.”

Fun Fact

Languages borrow words from each other all the time, which is why “CH” can sound different in different words. Now you know why “CH” can make three different sounds!

Next time you see “CH” in a word, try to guess which sound it makes. It’s like a little puzzle you can solve with your reading skills!

  • Can you think of any words you know that have the “ch” sound, like in “chocolate”? What about words with the “k” sound, like in “school”? Or the “sh” sound, like in “champagne”? Share them with us!
  • Why do you think it’s fun to learn about the different sounds that “CH” can make? Have you ever noticed these sounds when reading or speaking?
  • Have you ever heard a word that sounded different from how it looks? How did you figure out the right way to say it?
  1. Sound Hunt: Go on a “CH” sound hunt around your home or classroom. Look for objects or items that have the “CH” letters in their names. Try to find at least one example for each of the three sounds: “ch,” “k,” and “sh.” For example, you might find “chair” for the “ch” sound, “school” for the “k” sound, and “machine” for the “sh” sound. Share your findings with a friend or family member and explain which sound each word makes.

  2. Sound Sorting Game: Create three boxes or areas labeled “ch,” “k,” and “sh.” Write down words with the “CH” letters on small pieces of paper, such as “chocolate,” “echo,” and “champagne.” Mix them up and then sort them into the correct boxes based on the sound they make. You can do this activity with a friend and take turns sorting the words. See who can sort them the fastest!

  3. Make Your Own Word Puzzle: Draw a picture of something that has the “CH” letters in its name. Then, write a short sentence or riddle about it, leaving a blank where the word should be. For example, “I am something you eat that is sweet and starts with ‘ch’.” (Answer: chocolate). Share your puzzle with a friend or family member and see if they can guess the word!

Here’s a sanitized version of the transcript:

The letters “CH” can produce three different sounds in English. In most English words, “CH” makes the sound “ch,” as in “chip.” However, there are exceptions. For example, in words that come from Greek, “CH” makes the sound “k,” as in “echo” and “school.” In words borrowed from French, “CH” makes the sound “sh,” as in “champagne” and “machine.” Now you know why “CH” can make three different sounds in different words.

This version removes any inappropriate language and clarifies the content.

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