What is an example of an onset in the word 'cat'?

In the word 'cat,' the onset refers specifically to the initial consonant or consonant cluster that precedes the vowel. In this case, the 'c' in 'cat' serves as the onset. Onsets play a crucial role in phonetics and phonology, helping to define the structure of syllables within words. Understanding onsets is fundamental for reading and phonics instruction, as they can help students decode and pronounce words correctly.

The other components of the word, such as 'a,' represent the vowel sound or the nucleus of the syllable, while 'at' extends beyond the onset into a syllabic structure that includes both vowel and subsequent consonant sounds. Therefore, focusing specifically on the consonant at the beginning of the word is key to identifying the onset accurately.