Connecticut Foundations of Reading Test (FORT) Practice

What is a vowel diphthong?

1. Two vowels that create their own distinct sound

2. Two consonants that form a single sound

3. A lone vowel sound in a syllable

4. Two consecutive sounds pronounced separately

The correct answer is: Two vowels that create their own distinct sound

A vowel diphthong is defined as a combination of two vowel sounds that blend together to create a single, distinct sound rather than being pronounced as two separate vowel sounds. This characteristic distinguishes diphthongs from other vowel combinations, where each vowel retains its individual sound. For example, in the word "coin," the combination of the vowel sounds "o" and "i" creates a unique diphthong sound that is different from the individual sounds of "o" and "i." The correct interpretation of a diphthong highlights its role in phonetics, where these combined vowel sounds contribute to the pronunciation of words in a fluid manner, effectively forming a single syllable with a unique vocal quality. This nuanced understanding of vowel sounds is crucial for grasping the complexities of phonological awareness, which is an essential aspect of literacy development.