When do we use “k” versus “ck” at the end of a word?

Question

We know that “ck” and “k” make the same sound so how do we know which one to use at the end of a word?

Answer 1

A great way to remember which ending to use is by remembering “Milk Truck”.

In the word milk, the vowel (i) is followed by a consonant (l). In this case, we would spell the /k/ sound with the letter k.

In the word truck, the vowel (u) is not followed by any consonants. In this case, we would spell the /k/ sound with the letters ck.

Answer 2

When (k) is the final sound in a word these rules are helpful:

In a 1 syllable word directly following a short vowel, a ck is used as in tuck

Directly following a consonant or a vowel pair, we use a k. as in blank. or cook

After a long vowel, use a ke. as in bake

In a word with 2 or more syllables, the final (k) sound is spelled with a c. as in optic

Answer 3

-CK is used at the end of a single syllable word when the vowel is short or does not say its name. Ex: Pick, stuck, block, peck, back

-K is used at the end of a syllable or word when the vowel says its name. Ex: peek, peak, teak,

Answer 4

The letters ck are used at the end of a syllable with a short vowel when the /k/ sound immediately follows the short vowel. Letter k is used at the end of a syllable when the vowel is long or when the short vowel is followed by a consonant.