Phonogram

A **phonogram** is a written symbol representing a speech sound or a combination of speech sounds. These symbols, typically letters or letter combinations, form the building blocks of a written language's sound system. Phonograms help us decode words by connecting the visual representation of the letter(s) with their corresponding sounds. Mastery of phonograms is crucial in developing proficient reading and spelling skills, allowing readers to accurately interpret the sounds of individual words. Different languages utilize different phonogram sets and mapping principles. The study of phonograms also involves understanding phonics and graphemes to decipher pronunciations.

Phonogram meaning with examples

• In the word 'cat', the phonograms 'c', 'a', and 't' each represent individual sounds, which combine to form the spoken word. This is a basic example of phonograms forming a small word. Learning simple phonograms is essential.
• The phonogram 'sh' in 'ship' represents a single sound, distinct from the individual sounds of 's' and 'h'. Recognizing digraphs like 'sh' is key for reading proficiency.
• Long vowel sounds, like the phonogram 'ai' in 'rain', represent vowels that 'say their name'. Decoding these phonograms is vital for reading more complex words and identifying how words are meant to be said.
• Students often practice with flashcards containing phonograms, such as 'igh' in 'night', to build fluency. Repeating the sounds associated with those letters will build reading speed.
• The phonogram 'tion' in 'action' represents a suffix with a specific pronunciation. Recognizing and understanding suffixes makes reading easier as they give a clue to the meaning of words.