The Ending “ion” Spelling Rule
The “ion” Ending Spelling Rule
One spelling pattern that drives kids and adults crazy is the “ion” suffix. Specifically, when do you spell “cian,” “sion,” and “tion.” The latter two spellings are especially confusing.
The Ending “ion” Spelling Rule
- If the suffix sounds like /shun/ and indicates a person, spell “cian” (musician).
- When a suffix sounds like /shun/ and follows an l or s, spell “sion” (expulsion, mission). Also, when the suffix sounds like /zyun/, spell “sion” (explosion).
- In all other cases, spell the /ion/ sound as “tion” (motion).
Exceptions to the rule: The “mit” root changes to “mis” and adds on “sion” instead of “tion.” Examples: commit-commission, permit-permission
Check out the song! The Ending “ion” Rule
Ending “ion” Twinkle
(to the tune of “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star”)
1. If the /shun/ sound you do hear
Twinkle, twinkle little star,
And it follows l or s.
How I wonder what you are.
Or if you, hear a /zyun/
Up above the world so high,
For both spell “s-i-o-n”.
Like a diamond in the sky.
Both these rules will serve you well,
Twinkle, twinkle little star,
Learning all the ways to spell.
How I wonder what you are.
2. When a person you describe,
Twinkle, twinkle little star,
You should spell “c-i-a-n.”
How I wonder what you are.
In most every other case,
Up above the world so high,
Simply spell “t-i-o-n”.
Like a diamond in the sky.
Both these rules will serve you well,
Twinkle, twinkle little star,
Learning all the ways to spell.
How I wonder what you are.
*****
A Model Grades 3-8 Spelling Scope and Sequence
Differentiated Spelling Instruction
Preview the Grades 3-8 Spelling Scope and Sequence tied to the author’s comprehensive grades 3-8 Language Strand programs. The instructional scope and sequence includes grammar, usage, mechanics, spelling, and vocabulary. Teachers and district personnel are authorized to print and share this planning tool, with proper credit and/or citation. Why reinvent the wheel? Also check out my articles on Grammar Scope and Sequence, Mechanics Scope and Sequence, and Vocabulary Scope and Sequence.
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