FTCE Reading K-12 Practice Exam

Which of the following best describes a consonant?

1. A sound with completely free airflow

2. A sound combined with a vowel to form a syllable

3. A sound that cannot be pronounced on its own

4. A sound produced without any obstruction

The correct answer is: A sound combined with a vowel to form a syllable

The choice that best describes a consonant is one that acknowledges its role in forming syllables when combined with vowels. Consonants are sounds made by obstructing airflow in various ways, which is crucial in their function. They often collaborate with vowels, which are produced with a relatively open vocal tract, to create syllables. For instance, in the word "cat," the consonant "c" and vowel "a" come together to contribute to the syllable structure. The other options do not accurately capture the essence of what a consonant is. A consonant is not produced with completely free airflow, as it inherently involves some form of obstruction. Additionally, while consonants do play a role in syllables, the idea that a consonant cannot be pronounced on its own is misleading since some consonants can be articulated independently, though they may not form a complete syllable without a vowel. Lastly, a consonant cannot be produced without any obstruction, as this obstruction is a defining characteristic of consonantal sounds.