Connecticut Foundations of Reading Test (FORT) Practice

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Prepare for the Connecticut Foundations of Reading Test (FORT). Access flashcards and multiple choice questions with detailed explanations. Ace your exam with confidence.

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In phonics, what is an onset?

The vowel part of a syllable
The initial consonant sound of a syllable
The combination of vowels in a word
The entire syllable of a word

The correct answer is: The initial consonant sound of a syllable

An onset refers to the initial consonant sound or sounds in a syllable. In the word "stray," for example, the onset is "str," and in "cat," it is simply "c." Recognizing the onset is crucial for phonics instruction as it helps students break down words into manageable parts for better reading and spelling. Understanding onsets allows learners to manipulate sounds by adding or changing initial consonants, which is a fundamental skill in phonemic awareness and phonics. This understanding supports word recognition and facilitates a reader’s ability to decode unfamiliar words.