Silent B
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More Lessons On English Grammar
English for Kids
Videos and songs to help First Grade kids learn about the silent B.
The letter B is silent in certain words, usually when it comes after the letter M or before the letter T. Recognizing these patterns can help improve spelling, pronunciation, and reading fluency.
Learning the Silent B
Patterns of Silent B
There are two main situations where “b” is usually silent:
- Silent B After M
“b” after “m” at the end of a word: This is the most common rule. If a word ends in “-mb,” the “b” is almost always silent.
Examples: Lamb, Climb, Dumb, Comb, Thumb - Silent B Before T
The B is silent when it comes before T in certain words.
Examples: Debt, Doubt, Subtle
Important Exceptions and Notes:
- If the “-mb-” is not at the end of the word, the “b” is usually pronounced. For example, in the word “number,” the “b” is pronounced. One exception is the “plumber” where the b is silent.
- Like many things in English spelling and pronunciation, there are always exceptions. However, the two rules above cover the vast majority of cases.
The following diagram shows some words with the silent b. Practice saying these words. Scroll down the page for more examples.
Silent ‘b’
Language Focus for Kindergarten
Silent Letters. Silent B
Silent Letter words - Silent B song
| Silent Letters | ||
|---|---|---|
| Silent B | Silent C | Silent D |
| Silent E | Silent G | Silent GH |
| Silent H | Silent K | Silent L |
| Silent T | Silent W | |
Learn the Sounds of the Letters
Learning Short Vowels
| Short Vowels | ||
|---|---|---|
| Short A | Short E | Short I |
| Short O | Short U | Short Vowels |
Learning Long Vowels
| Long Vowels | ||
|---|---|---|
| Long A | Long E | Long I |
| Long O | Long U | Y (vowel) |
| Long Vowels | Short, Long Vowels | |
Compare Short & Long Vowels
| Short & Long Vowels | ||
|---|---|---|
| Short & Long A | Short & Long E | Short & Long I |
| Short & Long O | Short & Long U | Short I & Long E |
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