New Hampshire Foundations of Reading Practice Test

What is a consonant blend?

1. Two consonants that form a new sound

2. Two or three consonants that blend together to make a sound

3. A single consonant followed by a vowel

4. A sequence of three vowels

The correct answer is: Two or three consonants that blend together to make a sound

A consonant blend refers to two or three consonant sounds that are articulated in close succession, where each consonant retains its individual sound, yet they meld together in pronunciation. This blending allows for a smoother transition between the consonants when spoken, such as in words like "blend," "strait," or "frog." Understanding consonant blends is crucial for reading instruction, as it helps learners decode words more effectively by recognizing how these consonant combinations work together while still preserving the sounds of each consonant. In contrast to the other options, the first choice incorrectly describes a situation where two consonants create a completely new sound, which is not characteristic of blends. The third choice refers to a structure that includes a vowel, which does not pertain to consonant blends, while the fourth describes a sequence of vowels, which is entirely unrelated. Thus, the definition of a consonant blend as an amalgamation of two or three consonants that combine to produce a sound is essential for understanding reading patterns in the English language.