WAEC 2020 English Language · Question 44

heart — choose the word that has the same vowel sound as the one represented by the letter(s) underlined

Question

choose the word that has the same vowel sound as the one represented by the letter(s) underlined. heart

In the original paper part of this question is underlined. The underline isn't shown here: see the explanation below.

A.lust
B.clear
C.star
D.heat

Answer: C. star

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Analyze the question: The word is "heart", with "ear" underlined. We need the word whose underlined vowel sound matches the sound in "heart".

Concept: In "heart", the letters "ear" are pronounced /ɑː/ (a long "ah" sound), as in /hɑːt/. This is an irregular spelling, because "ear" is usually pronounced differently, as in "hear" or "earth".

Step-by-step comparison:

A. lust /lʌst/: the vowel is /ʌ/ (short "uh"). Not a match.
B. clear /klɪə/: the vowel is the diphthong /ɪə/. Not a match.
C. star /stɑː/: the vowel is /ɑː/ (long "ah"). This matches "heart" /hɑːt/.
D. heat /hiːt/: the vowel is /iː/ (long "ee"). Not a match.

Answer: C. star

Exam tip: Remember that "heart", "hearth", "star", "car", "farm" and "calm" all share the /ɑː/ sound. When you see "ear" in a word, don't assume the sound. Compare "heart" (/ɑː/), "hear" (/ɪə/), "earth" (/ɜː/) and "bear" (/eə/). Say each option aloud quietly and match the sound, not the spelling.

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