Final answer:
The statement about the Scrabble word values is true. 'Irk' scores 7 points in Scrabble, while 'vex' scores 13 points, making it a higher-value synonym. Additionally, spelling rules dictate the use of '' or '' before an '' based on the length of the preceding vowel.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement is True with respect to the Scrabble word values. In Scrabble, each letter has a specific point value. The word 'irk' consists of the letters I (1 point), R (1 point), and K (5 points), totaling 7 points. As for 'vex', the letters V (4 points), E (1 point), and X (8 points) add up to a total of 13 points, making 'vex' a synonym for 'irk' with a Scrabble face value of 13.
Regarding the rules for spelling words with the '[k]' sound before an '' at the end of the word, it is correct that the '[k]' is spelled as '' if the preceding vowel is short, and as '' if the preceding vowel is long. For example, the word 'tickle' has a short vowel before the '[k]' and is spelled with '', while 'cycle' has a long vowel before the '[k]' and is spelled with just ''.