What type of sound do diphthongs consist of?

Diphthongs consist of a combination of two vowel sounds that are pronounced in one syllable. This means that as a speaker articulates the diphthong, they transition from one vowel sound to the other within a single, smooth motion. For instance, in words like "coin" or "loud," the two vowel sounds blend together seamlessly, creating a unique sound that is different from either vowel in isolation.

Understanding diphthongs is essential in literacy as it helps with pronunciation, spelling, and the overall development of phonemic awareness. This knowledge allows learners to identify and correctly produce various vowel combinations in different contexts, enhancing their reading and speaking skills.