Long vowels are vowel sounds that say their own name. For example, the long “a” sounds like the letter “A” in the alphabet.
When you see a long vowel, think of the vowel “saying its name.”
Long vowels are often formed when a vowel is followed by a silent “e” or when two vowels are placed together in a word.
Remember the rhyme: “When two vowels go walking, the first one does the talking.” The first vowel is usually long, and the second one is silent.
Long vowels appear in regular spelling patterns that can help you read and spell words correctly.
Practice spotting these patterns in books you read. They will help you decode new words more easily.
Reading full sentences with long vowel words will help you build fluency and confidence.
Compare short vowel words to long vowel words to hear the difference clearly.
Understanding long vowels helps you read, spell, and write more accurately. They are an essential part of becoming a strong reader.
Changing a short vowel to a long vowel can completely change the meaning of a word. Always check carefully when reading or writing.