Here's why:
* The "a" is followed by a consonant ("g"). This usually indicates a short vowel sound.
* The "o" is silent. It doesn't contribute to the vowel sound.
Therefore, the vowel sound in "wagon" is similar to the "a" in "cat" or "hat."
Here's why:
* The "a" is followed by a consonant ("g"). This usually indicates a short vowel sound.
* The "o" is silent. It doesn't contribute to the vowel sound.
Therefore, the vowel sound in "wagon" is similar to the "a" in "cat" or "hat."