Syllables are word parts that contain a single vowel sound. Every word has at least one syllable, and some words have many syllables.
Clap your hands for each vowel sound you hear in a word to count the syllables.
A closed syllable ends with a consonant. The vowel sound is usually short.
If a vowel is followed by a consonant and the syllable ends there, the vowel is often short.
An open syllable ends with a vowel. The vowel sound is usually long.
When a syllable ends with a single vowel, it usually says its long sound (like the vowel’s name).
A silent e syllable ends with an “e” that is not pronounced. The silent “e” makes the vowel before it long.
Remember: “Silent e” makes the vowel say its name.
An r-controlled syllable has a vowel followed by the letter “r.” The “r” changes the sound of the vowel.
When “r” follows a vowel, the vowel does not make a regular short or long sound. Listen carefully to the change.
A vowel team syllable has two vowels together that make one sound. The sound can be long, short, or another vowel sound.
Remember the rhyme: “When two vowels go walking, the first one does the talking.” But there are exceptions, so practice them.