← Back

Advanced Spelling Words with Silent Letters and -sion Endings (/ʒən/ Sound)

Welcome to our collection of spelling words featuring silent letters and the -sion suffix that makes the /ʒən/ sound. These challenging words are perfect for upper elementary and middle school students who are ready to tackle more complex spelling patterns.

Word List

Here are 12 commonly used words that follow this spelling pattern:

  • version
  • vision
  • revision
  • provision
  • division
  • television
  • decision
  • precision
  • explosion
  • confusion
  • invasion
  • evasion

Understanding the Pattern

The -sion suffix in these words creates the /ʒən/ sound, which is similar to the "zh" sound followed by "un." This pattern typically appears when the base word ends in -de, -d, -s, or -se. For example, "decide" becomes "decision," and "divide" becomes "division." Understanding this pattern helps students recognize and spell these words correctly.

Educational Standards Alignment

These spelling words align with several Common Core Standards, particularly those focused on spelling patterns and word formation. The most relevant standards include:

  • CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.3.2.F: Use spelling patterns and generalizations (e.g., word families, position-based spellings, syllable patterns, ending rules, meaningful word parts) in writing words.
  • CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.4.2.D: Spell grade-appropriate words correctly, consulting references as needed.

These standards are particularly relevant because these words require students to understand and apply consistent spelling patterns (the -sion suffix) while also recognizing how base words change when suffixes are added. This knowledge helps students develop their spelling abilities and understand word relationships.

Teaching Tips

When introducing these words, help students identify the base words and discuss how they change when adding the -sion suffix. For example, you might show how "divide" becomes "division" or "decide" becomes "decision." This approach helps students understand the transformation process and makes the spelling pattern more memorable.

Practice Activities

Regular practice with these words helps students internalize the spelling pattern. Some effective activities include:

  1. Word sorting exercises
  2. Base word identification
  3. Creating sentences using multiple words from the list
  4. Word family building
  5. Spelling pattern recognition games

Create Your Own Worksheet

Ready to help your students practice these challenging words? Our worksheet generator makes it easy to create custom spelling activities tailored to your students' needs.

Create a worksheet using words from this list

Remember that consistent practice with these words will help students master both the spelling pattern and the meaning of these commonly used words. Regular exposure and structured practice are key to spelling success.

Additional Resources

For more practice with similar spelling patterns or to explore other word lists, browse our extensive collection of spelling resources. Whether you're teaching in a classroom setting or supporting learning at home, we have materials to help make spelling instruction effective and engaging.