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Learning to read can be a delightful adventure for children, but sometimes they stumble upon tricky sounds like the OW sound. Even adult learners of the English language struggle with these words. There is the OW diphthong in ‘cow’, ‘how’, and ‘now’ and, then there is the pattern ‘OW long O’ sound in ‘tow’, ‘show’, and ‘flow’ on which this article focusses.
The good news is, there’s no need to rely on memorising every single word! We’ve created a free downloadable word list and worksheet specifically designed to help learners practise the ‘OW long O’ sound. This handy resource provides a comprehensive list of words spelled with this pattern, giving learners a solid foundation in recognising and pronouncing these tricky yet common sounds.
Why learn ‘OW long O’ sound?
Here’s why mastering the ‘OW long O’ sound is so crucial: the letters OW can be quite deceiving. Understanding the different sounds associated with OW equips learners to decode words more effectively.
This is where phonics comes in. Phonics is the science of how sounds are linked to letters. By learning phonics, children gain a deeper understanding of how written symbols translate into spoken language. This knowledge goes far beyond mere memorisation – it empowers them to tackle new words they may not have encountered before.
Imagine trying to learn every word in the English language simply by reading books! Not all children have access to vast libraries or the time to devour every book available. Phonics, and specifically learning patterns like the ‘OW long O’ sound, bridges this gap by providing a systematic approach to understanding written language. This empowers young learners to become confident and independent readers.
The benefits extend beyond native English speakers as well. Foreign language learners grappling with English as a Second Language (ESL) will find phonics a valuable tool. By understanding the connection between sound and symbol, ESL learners can begin to decode unfamiliar words and build their vocabulary more efficiently.
So, take advantage of our free downloadable word list and worksheet on the ‘OW long O’ sound today! It’s a fantastic way to give your child a head-start on their reading journey, equipping them with the tools they need to become confident and successful readers. After all, a strong foundation in phonics paves the way for a lifelong love of learning and exploration through the written word.
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