The words watched, wanted, and warned illustrate which principle?

The correct answer highlights how suffix spelling can be more consistent and reliable compared to how they are pronounced. In the words "watched," "wanted," and "warned," the suffixes share a common spelling—specifically the "-ed" ending—but the pronunciation can differ based on the preceding sounds. This demonstrates that while suffixes have predictable written forms, the actual pronunciation may change, reinforcing the idea that the spelling of the suffix can be a more reliable indicator than its phonetic application.

This understanding is crucial for educators and learners as it emphasizes the importance of recognizing written forms in teaching reading and spelling, providing a foundation for successfully navigating English's often unpredictable pronunciation patterns. It encourages a focus on spelling patterns as a guide for pronunciation rather than relying solely on phonetic cues, which can vary significantly between words.