Grammar Study - Consonant Clusters

• Definition of consonant clusters
• Positions of consonant clusters
• Exercises

A consonant is a speech sound produced as a result of an obstruction of the free flow of air from the lungs.

For consonant letters, they include every other letters of the alphabets other than A,E ,I, O,U (verbs).

In the study of consonant clusters , however , great attention is paid to the sound of the clustering consonants.

Consonant clusters refers to the occurrence of two or more consonant sounds in a word without the interference of a vowel. In this case, every vowel sound in the said word is found either before or after the clusters.

Consonant clusters are also called consonant blends.

POSITIONS OF CONSONANT CLUSTERS

There are basically three positions of consonant clusters

Initial Clusters

This is observed  when the consonants cluster at the beginning of the word.

It may be a combo of 2-3 consonant sounds

Examples of initial two consonant clusters

Slay
Speak
Fry
Dwarf
Dress
Skate
Fly


Examples of initial three consonant clusters

Splash
Strong

Medial Clusters

Clusters in this category are noticed in the middle of words.

Examples of words with medial clusters 

Kidnap
Casket
Pregnant
Basket
Comfort

Final Clusters 

This is noted when consonants cluster at the end of the words.

Examples of words with final clusters

Crust
Mask
Porch
Cost
Lurk

Sentences Where Clusters Take A Prominent Role

1.It is best to ask for help, if the task is too hard.
2.Most adults find it difficult to ask for help.
3.The president wore a mask to the camp at dusk.
4.He drank from the swamp at the end of the park. 

Exercises

1.List ten words to show the
-Initial clusters
-Medial clusters
-Final clusters.

2.Put down three sentences with at least two consonant clusters.