One rule we learn at school is the memory trick, "i before e except after c."
“i before e” = -ie- = believe field, believe, niece, piece
”except after c” = -ei- = receive, receipt, ceiling
Do we always use ei after c? Unfortunately, no.
Look at these words with -ie- or -ei- after the c. Read them aloud.
ancient, efficient, science, society, seize, receipt, receive, deceive, ceiling
Do you notice that the -cei- words have different sounds?
These words have a "sh" sound: ancient, efficient
And these have a "s" sound: science, society, seize
receipt, receive, deceive, ceiling have a long vowel "ee" sound
So we need to change the spelling rule to - "i before e except after a long c" or "i before e so long as the word rhymes with bee."
Rules!!! Hard to explain and always exceptions!!!
Use the memory trick saying: “ i before e except after a long c” (compare these achieve, receive)
“i before e when there’s a “sh” sound” (ancient)
“i before e but not when there’s an “ay” sound in neighbo(u)r and weigh”
Now do the spelling test
Pen and paper at the ready. There are 12 words just write the word or if you want to write the sentence too. Enjoy and don’t worry about mistakes.
Check your spelling letter by letter. If you’ve made a mistake, notice why. Can you use a memory trick saying?
Answers
1. piece — A piece of paper.
2. believe — I believe you.
3. eight — The number eight
4. relief — It's a relief the work has finished.
5. received — I received your parcel today.
6. weigh — How much do you weigh?
7. brief — I'll be brief.
8. society — Never forget that we live in a multicultural society.
9. height — What's the height of this wardrobe?
10. neighbours/ neighbors (AmE) — My neighbours/neighbors (American) are friendly.
11. efficient — This freezer is very efficient.
12. receipt — Would you like your receipt?