/k/ — choose the word that contains the sound represented by the phonetic symbol

Analyze the question: You are asked to find the word that contains the consonant sound /k/ (the "k" sound), whatever the spelling.

Concept: Sounds are not the same as letters. The sound /k/ can be written as k, c, ck, ch, q, and also x, because the letter "x" often represents two sounds together: /ks/.

Check each option:

• A. axe is pronounced /æks/. The letter "x" gives /k/ + /s/, so the /k/ sound is present. ✔
• B. cease is pronounced /siːs/. The "c" is soft and gives /s/. There is no /k/. ✘
• C. knew is pronounced /njuː/. The "k" is silent. ✘
• D. knob is pronounced /nɒb/. The "k" is silent. ✘

Answer: Only "axe" contains the /k/ sound, so the answer is A.

Tip: Watch for silent letters. A "kn-" at the start of a word (knew, knob, knee, knife) is always silent, so the "k" is not pronounced. Also remember that "x" = /ks/, so it contains the /k/ sound. Always say the word aloud in your head instead of trusting the spelling.