1. Overview of Spelling with 'c' vs. 'k'

Rule #1: When the /k/ sound is followed by a vowel …

• Use 'c' when the /k/ sound is followed by 'a', 'o', or 'u'. (Like in the word cap or cake.)
• Use 'k' when the /k/ sound is followed by 'e', 'i', or 'y'. (Like in the word kept or kite.)

Rule #2: When the /k/ sound is part of a blend …

• Use 'c' when the /k/ sound is followed by a consonant. (Like in the word fact.)
• Use 'k' when the /k/ sound is the last letter in the word. (Like in the word desk.)

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Students: 'c', cat, /k/ ... 'k', kite /k/ ...

Ashton Smith: Wait a minute ...

Students: 'c', cat, /k/ ... 'k', kite /k/ ...

Students: /k/, /k/ ...

Ashton Smith: Do they make the same sound?

Students: Yes!

Ashton Smith: Great. Okay, so how do we know when to use it? Let's see.

Student: Curvy 'c' goes with curvy 'a', curvy 'o', curvy 'u' ... and straight 'k' goes with straight 'i', straight 'e', straight 'y' ...

Ashton Smith: Very nice, very nice.