Phoneme
The smallest unit of sound in speech that can change a word's meaning.
- Used in
- All four UK nations (details may differ), United States, International
- Topic
- Teaching and learning
Being checked against official sources. This definition is written in our own words; always check the official guidance for your country.
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Related terms
- Grapheme All four UK nations (details may differ) United States International
- A letter or group of letters that represents a phoneme in writing.
- Phonics All four UK nations (details may differ) United States International
- Teaching children to read by linking sounds (phonemes) with letters or groups of letters (graphemes).
More terms: Teaching and learning
Oracy · Pacing guide · Personalised learning · Phonemic awareness · Phonological awareness · Plenary
More terms starting with P · Education glossary A–Z · Get a TIP for your class
Definitions are written by Classfern in our own words for teachers in the UK and the US. They are short explanations, not legal or official definitions: always check the official guidance for your country, nation or state. Classfern is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government department, inspectorate or exam board named here.