During Wednesday's lecture, we were introduced to a linguistic notation used to

describe the syllable. This "sigma (σ) notation" looks like (a):

(a) σ =syllable

rhyme (rime)

onset nucleus(peak) coda

C V C
[b æ t]

To use this notation yourself, follow the steps outlined below:

1. Transcribe the word into IPA, and write C above consonants, and V above vowels.

2. Identify the most sonorous segment. This is the 'peak' of the syllable, which is also
known as the nucleus: If a vowel is present in the syllable (and one usually
is), it is always the peak.
σ
3. Draw a line straight up from the peak/nucleus:
æ
4. If there is a coda, connect it midway between the sigma and the nucleus, to create
the rhyme. σ

æ t]
5. Next, attach the onset to the sigma, and (for very simple words) you're done!
σ
(b)
[b æ t]
6. Remember that onsets and codas can be
complex, as in (b)!

7. Now, please do 3 "sigma diagrams" for words that rhyme with "bat" ([bæt]) on a
piece of paper. Please clearly write your name, section # and the date at the top; this
will count as participation for the day. Feel free to discuss with your neighbors if you
get stuck!