The Three Sounds of -ed - Pronunciation Reference
See why worked, played and wanted end differently despite sharing the spelling -ed. This A2-B1 reference groups regular verbs by /t/, /d/ and /ɪd/ and shows which endings add a syllable.
What’s in the worksheet?
- 1 printable page
- Not needed - explanation and reference sheet
Listen to the base verb's final sound before choosing an ending.
Worksheet preview
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Page 1 of 1 · A4 printable PDF
A simple way to teach it
Before the lesson
Have the reference visible and prepare to model work, play, want and need.
- Say each base verb first, then its past form, while learners count the syllables.
- Use laughed and lived to show why the final letter alone is unreliable.
- Ask pairs to choose an unfamiliar verb from each column and explain its placement aloud.
Support and extension
For learners unfamiliar with IPA, use the spoken examples and syllable counts. Follow with the separate sorting worksheet when the sound distinction is clear.
Suggested approach. Adjust the pace and number of questions to suit your class.
