- j
- g
- -dge
- -ge
- d
Let us look at each spelling and just when we use a particular spelling…
1.) The letter “j” makes the /j/ sound
The letter “j” makes the /j/ sound when it comes before an “a,” “o” or “u” in a word that is most often Anglo-Saxon. Let us look at a few examples:
- jab
- job
- jump
- jostle
- jacket
- jungle
2.) The letter “g” makes the /j/ sound
The letter “g” makes the /j/ sound when followed by an “e,” “i” or “y” in a word that is often derived from Greek or Latin (these languages do not use the “j” symbol to represent the /j/ sound). I like to refer to the “g” making the /j/ sound as being a part of the Stick Vowel Rule. Let us look at a few examples:
- gem
- gentle
- giant
- gymnasium
- ginger
- hydrogen
3.)The letters “-dge” make the /j/ sound
The letters “-dge” make the /j/ sound at the end of a one-syllable word, followed by one short vowel. These words are most often Anglo-Saxon. I like to refer to the “-dge” making the /j/ sound as being a part of the Soldier Rule (This rule simply states that the “d” is the soldier that stands silent protecting the short vowel sound in the middle from the big “ge” at the end of the word). Let us look at a few examples:
- ledge
- fudge
- badge
- bridge
- lodge
4.)The letters “-ge” make the /j/ sound
The letters “-ge” make the /j/ sound in a one-syllable word following a diphthong, a consonant or long vowel sound. These words are most often Anglo-Saxon unless found at the end of a multisyllabic word, which are most often derived from Greek or Latin. Let us look at a few examples:
- cage
- rouge
- cringe
- stooge
- revenge
- privilege
NOTE: The French also use the “-age” suffix and is pronounced (äzh). For example:
- decoupage
- garage
- mirage
- corsage
- camouflage
5.)The letter “d” makes the /j/ sound
The letter “d” makes the /j/ sound when used with the connective “u.” When the “u” connects the root or base word ending with a “d” to the suffix, the “d” makes the /j/ sound. These words are derived from Latin. Let us look at a few examples:
- individual
- schedule
- residual
- graduate
- gradual
It is important to learn the five ways to spell the /j/ sound in the English language and the underlying rules behind each spelling to assist our students with accurate decoding and encoding skills. It cannot be assumed that our students with Dyslexia understand these rules that govern the English language and therefore, need to be given explicit instruction in order to be successful. In fact, all students would benefit from this knowledge.
English language acquisition is a true gift that can only be delivered by a qualified, passionate & dedicated teacher… Whether that be a parent, school teacher, speech & language pathologist or anyone who teaches another individual language skills. You are a life changer and a life saver to many! Thank-you for the hours of dedication you have put into mastering your skill sets for the sake of others who need you the most.
Keep doing what you are doing because the world needs what only you have to offer…
