Why some words have /ph/ and not /f/?
The word “elephant” has the spelling “ph” instead of “f” because it follows a spelling pattern in English. In some words, the “f” sound is represented by the letters “ph.” This pattern is derived from Greek words that were borrowed into English.
In the case of “elephant,” the word has its origins in the Greek word “elephas.” When this word was adopted into English, the “ph” spelling was used to represent the “f” sound. This is why we see “ph” in words like “elephant,” “phone,” and “philosophy.”
It’s important to note that spelling patterns in English can sometimes be irregular, and there are exceptions to many rules. Teaching children about spelling patterns and exceptions can help them understand why certain words have different letter combinations for similar sounds.
Jolly Phonics Activities - How to teach /ph/ and /f/ words
Teaching the sounds of “f” and “ph” to kids can be made fun and engaging with various activities. Here are some creative and interactive ideas to help kids distinguish between the two sounds:
Phonics Hunt: Create flashcards with words containing either “f” or “ph” sounds. Place the cards around the room and let the kids go on a scavenger hunt. When they find a card, they need to say the word aloud and identify whether it has the “f” or “ph” sound.
Sorting Game: Prepare a set of word cards, each with either an “f” or “ph” word. Give the kids two containers or sorting mats labeled “f” and “ph.” They have to read each word and place it in the correct container or mat based on the sound they hear.
Picture-Word Match: Create picture cards representing “f” and “ph” words. Pair them with corresponding word cards. The kids must match the pictures with the correct word cards and practice saying the words out loud.
Story Time: Read a story that contains words with “f” and “ph” sounds. As you come across these words, emphasize the sounds, and encourage the kids to join in and repeat the words when they hear them.
Phonics Puzzles: Create simple puzzles with “f” and “ph” words. Write the words on one piece and the corresponding pictures on another. The kids have to match the word with its correct picture and say the word aloud.
Tongue Twisters: Introduce fun tongue twisters that include “f” and “ph” words. Have the kids practice saying them repeatedly, which will help them become more comfortable with the sounds.
Art and Craft: Provide the kids with paper, glue, and pictures of objects with “f” and “ph” words. They can create collages or drawings using the pictures and write the corresponding words beneath them.
Bingo Game: Create bingo cards with words containing “f” and “ph” sounds. Call out words randomly, and the kids can mark off the words they hear. The first one to get a line or a full card wins!
Song and Dance: Come up with a catchy song or chant that highlights “f” and “ph” words. Include hand gestures or dance moves to make it more enjoyable for the kids.
Remember, repetition and practice are essential when teaching new sounds. Encourage the kids to use “f” and “ph” words in their everyday conversations, and provide positive reinforcement as they progress. Making learning enjoyable and interactive will help them grasp the concept more effectively.
