18
The apostrophe sign (’)
Textbook Part 1, pp. 50–51
GoalKnow that the apostrophe (’) makes the vowel before it longer.
New words
apostrophe (’) · tutuq belgisilong, drawn out · cho‘ziqmeaning · ma’no
Explanation
When the apostrophe (’) comes after a vowel, the vowel is said a little longer: ma’no (meaning), a’lo (excellent), e’lon (announcement), ta’til (holiday). The sign must not be left out.
Worked examples
ma’no (meaning), ne’mat (blessing), da’vo (claim), sa’va (oriole)
Bahor ta’tili keldi. (The spring holiday has come.)
Class activity
Children say a’lo with the longer vowel and write it with the sign.
Practice
1
Add the apostrophe: alo (excellent)
a’lo
2
Say a word with an apostrophe.
For example: ma’no, ta’til
3
The apostrophe comes after what kind of sound?
After a vowel