FTCE Reading K-12 Practice Exam

Which statement best describes consonant blends?

1. They can only occur at the beginning of words

2. Each consonant in the blend is heard when pronounced

3. They are found at the end of words only

4. They always include a vowel

The correct answer is: Each consonant in the blend is heard when pronounced

Consonant blends are unique phonetic groupings in which two or more consonants appear together in a word, and each consonant in the blend retains its individual sound when pronounced. This characteristic is essential for helping learners develop phonemic awareness as they become familiar with the sounds that make up words. The selection of the statement that each consonant in the blend is heard when pronounced accurately captures this key feature of consonant blends. For example, in the word "straw," the consonant blend "str" contains the sounds of "s," "t," and "r" articulated distinctly. While some blends may occur at the beginning of words, they are not restricted to this position and can also be found within words and occasionally at the end. Thus, the perception that blends can only occur at the beginning does not encompass the whole definition. Similarly, blends do not inherently require the presence of a vowel (as in end blends), making the statement regarding vowel inclusion inaccurate. Additionally, the idea that blends exist only at the end of words is also misleading, as they can broadly appear in various positions throughout words.