What is a digraph?

A digraph is best defined as two letters that combine to form one distinct sound. This concept is crucial in phonetics and literacy instruction, as it plays a significant role in understanding how letters can work together in language. For instance, in English, common examples of digraphs include "ch" as in "cheese," "sh" as in "ship," and "th" as in "this." These letter combinations produce a unique sound that is different from the sounds produced by the individual letters when they stand alone.

Recognizing digraphs is a foundational skill in learning to read and write, helping students improve their decoding abilities and overall literacy. Understanding how to identify and use digraphs effectively aids in mastering the nuances of language and contributes to reading fluency.