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Soft C and G, dge = /dʒ/ Spelling Word List

Learning to spell words with soft C and G sounds, particularly the 'dge' pattern that creates the /dʒ/ sound at the end of words, is an important part of developing strong literacy skills. This carefully curated list of spelling words helps students master these common spelling patterns while building their vocabulary.

Common Core Standards Alignment

This word list aligns with several Common Core Standards, particularly those focused on spelling patterns and conventions:

  • CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.2.2.D: Generalize learned spelling patterns when writing words
  • CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.3.2.F: Use spelling patterns and generalizations in writing words

These standards are particularly relevant because the 'dge' spelling pattern is a crucial generalization that students need to master. The pattern teaches students that after a short vowel sound, the /dʒ/ sound is typically spelled with 'dge' rather than just 'ge'. This understanding helps students both decode and encode words with this pattern more effectively.

Word List

Here are 16 commonly used words that follow the 'dge' spelling pattern:

  • edge
  • hedge
  • ledge
  • wedge
  • pledge
  • badge
  • ridge
  • bridge
  • dodge
  • lodge
  • budge
  • fudge
  • judge
  • nudge
  • grudge
  • smudge

Teaching Tips

When introducing these words, it's helpful to point out that the 'dge' spelling pattern typically appears after a short vowel sound. This pattern is consistent across all the words in this list, making it an excellent tool for teaching this spelling rule. Students can practice identifying the short vowel sound that comes before the 'dge' in each word, reinforcing both their phonemic awareness and their understanding of spelling patterns.

Practice Activities

These words can be used in various engaging activities:

  1. Word sorting by short vowel sound
  2. Creating sentences using multiple words from the list
  3. Word building exercises
  4. Spelling pattern recognition games
  5. Dictionary skills practice

Having students work with these words in multiple contexts helps reinforce both their spelling and meaning, leading to better retention and application in their writing.

Create a worksheet using words from this list

Why These Words Matter

These words represent a significant spelling pattern in English that students will encounter frequently in their reading and writing. Mastering the 'dge' pattern not only helps with these specific words but also builds understanding of English spelling conventions more broadly. When students understand that 'dge' typically follows a short vowel sound, they're better equipped to tackle unfamiliar words with similar patterns.

Remember, consistent practice with these spelling patterns helps students become more confident readers and writers, ultimately contributing to their overall literacy development.