Introduction

Relevance of the Theme

The Digraph 'SS' is a crucial element of the Portuguese Language, belonging to the set of consonant digraphs that act in the phonetic-orthographic system. Its comprehension and correct usage are fundamental for word formation, punctuation, and the semantics of the language, directly affecting the quality and accuracy of written communication. Furthermore, the study of 'SS' provides a greater understanding of the nuances and particularities of the Portuguese Language.

Contextualization

Within the curriculum, the study of the digraph 'SS' fits into the Phonetics and Phonology unit, a pillar in the foundations of learning Portuguese. This specific topic is introduced after the concepts of phonemes and letters, forming a bridge to the understanding of more complex aspects of spelling. Moreover, mastering this subject plays a fundamental role in preparing for more advanced topics, such as constructing coherent and cohesive discourse and morphological and syntactic analysis.

Theoretical Development

Components

• Digraph: Of Greek origin, the word digraph refers to the idea of 'two strokes.' In the Portuguese language, it designates the combination of two letters that represent a single sound, that is, a single phoneme. Understanding the digraph is essential for the study of 'SS,' which is an example of this category.

• SS: The 'SS' is a consonantal digraph of the Portuguese Language. Its main characteristic is the representation of the /s/ sound within words, but never at the beginning or end. Its correct application allows for the formation of words and sentences that are correct in terms of spelling and semantics.

Key Terms

• Phoneme: The smallest sound unit capable of establishing a distinction of meaning between words. Knowledge about phonemes is crucial to understand the functionality of the digraph 'SS,' which represents the /s/ phoneme.

• Spelling: Part of grammar that deals with the correct use of letters in word writing. The study of 'SS' is located within this field, as its comprehension and application are directly linked to correct writing.

• Syllable: A phonetic unit pronounced with a single emission of voice. The 'SS,' being a digraph, is always contained within a single syllable.

Examples and Cases

• Application of 'SS': The word 'passarinho' is an example of the correct use of the digraph 'SS.' It is noted that 'SS' appears in the middle of the word, providing the /s/ sound and being part of the same syllable ('pas-sa-ri-nho').

• Comparison with Isolated 'S': Drawing a parallel between 'casa' and 'massa,' we notice the difference in sounds that an isolated 'S' and the digraph 'SS' produce. While 'casa' has the /z/ sound due to the 'S' between vowels, 'massa' has the /s/ sound thanks to the digraph 'SS'.

• Common Error in 'surpreso': Frequently, there is confusion between 'SS' and the simple 'S' in the case of the word 'surpreso.' Many people write 'surspreso,' which is a mistake. This example reinforces the importance of knowing and correctly applying the digraph 'SS' to ensure the correct writing of words.

Detailed Summary

Relevant Points

• Definition of Digraph: It is the union of two letters that represent a single phoneme. It is essential to understand the concept of digraph to comprehend the function and application of 'SS' in the Portuguese language.

• Characterization of the Digraph 'SS': This is a consonantal digraph that represents the /s/ sound within words. It is important to emphasize that it is never used at the beginning or end of words.

• Differentiation between 'S' and 'SS': Considering the context, the isolated 'S' can have the /z/ sound (as in 'casa'), while the digraph 'SS' will always have the /s/ sound (as in 'passarinho').

Conclusions

• Mastering the use of the digraph 'SS' is crucial for correct writing in the Portuguese language. This knowledge contributes to the formation of words and sentences that are orthographically correct.

• Understanding and applying 'SS' is fundamental for differentiating meanings and constructing precise and effective communication in writing.

• Common errors, such as writing 'surspreso' instead of 'surpreso,' reinforce the need to understand where and when to use the digraph 'SS'.

Suggested Exercises

1. Separate the syllables of the following words and identify where the digraph 'SS' is present: 'passarinho,' 'massa,' 'processo'.

2. Complete the following words with 'S' or 'SS,' justifying your choice: a) pa__ado, b) profe__or, c) a__inar.

3. Correct the following words, if necessary, respecting the use of the digraph 'SS': a) casado, b) aceso, c) preceso.