Mb words

How do you teach mb words?

Mb is a small set, so teach it as a list with a picture for each: lamb, comb, thumb, climb, crumb. "At the end of a word, when b follows m, the b is quiet." Show that the b often comes back in a related word: bomb and bombard, crumb and crumble. That link gives spelling a reason.

What mistake do students make with mb words?

Students say the /b/ (clim-b) or leave it off when spelling (clim). Read the word with the b covered, then uncover it and say, "Still /m/. The b is silent here." A quick review card for the dozen common words is enough.

Where do mb words come in the sequence?

Mb is usually taught with kn and wr in one silent letter lesson, late in the sequence. In the sequence we use, the pattern is taught in Lesson 98.

Exceptions worth knowing

When the b starts a new syllable, it is said: number, timber, amber. Plumber and climber keep the silent b because the base word has it. Doubt and debt have a silent b after a vowel, a different pattern.

Decodable sentences

Every word in these sentences can be read at Lesson 98 or earlier, or is a heart word taught by then.

• The lamb can climb the hill.
• I hit my thumb.
• The comb is on the shelf.