Gn words

How do you teach gn words?

Teach gn in two places. At the start (gnat, gnaw, gnome) it is like kn. At the end (sign, design, campaign) it usually follows a long vowel. "The g is quiet. Gn says /n/." The best spelling hook is the related word where the g is said: sign and signal, design and designate, resign and resignation.

What mistake do students make with gn words?

Students spell sign as sine or sin. Have them say signal and listen for the /g/. Then show that sign keeps the g. In reading, they may try /g/ /n/; cover the g to show the /n/.

Where do gn words come in the sequence?

Gn is taught late, usually alongside ch /k/, ch /sh/ and silent t, after most vowel patterns. In the sequence we use, the pattern is taught in Lesson 118.

Exceptions worth knowing

In signal, signature and dignity, g and n belong to different syllables and the g is said. Foreign and reign have gn after a vowel team. Words like campaign and champagne keep a French spelling.

Decodable sentences

Every word in these sentences can be read at Lesson 118 or earlier, or is a heart word taught by then.

• The sign is at the gate.
• A gnat sat on my arm.
• We can design a big poster.