Learning how to decode syllables is the key to unlocking longer and more challenging words. The learning to read blogs explain the six different syllable types: open, closed, magic e, r-controlled, consonant-le, and finally—drum roll—vowel teams.
Checkout ways to help your child learn to break apart multisyllabic words in Learning to Read Part 1 Learning to Read Part 2 Learning to Read Part 3
Understands how syllables, base words, prefixes, and suffixes work in order to read and understand multiple-syllable words
Reads irregularly spelled multisyllable words and words with common initial and final sounds
Uses context of a paragraph to determine the meaning of words and phrases
Uses correct capitalization and punctuation
Reads for longer lengths of time to understand third grade texts
What are vowel teams? A vowel team is when two vowels come together and make one sound. This can be a long vowel sound as in the word boat, a short vowel sound as in the word bread, or a whole new sound as in the word foil.
One common rule of thumb is “When two vowels go walking the first one does the talking.” This is the case for some of the vowel teams,but only about 50%. Think of words that we commonly use that don’t follow this rule: good, friend, bear. The first vowel does not always do the talking, sometimes it’s the second vowel—or sometimes the vowel teams create a whole new sound. Studying word patterns helps children learn how to decode vowel teams. The chart below from All About Reading highlights vowel teams that create a long vowel sound.
Vowel teams are one of the trickiest skills to master as a reader and a speller. Children can often times read words with vowel teams before they can spell them. The best way to master vowel teams is by learning each team in isolation and by practicing with word sorts and games. Remember to take it slow—and practice one team at a time. The activities below will help reinforce learning.
Reading Rev: Understanding Vowel Teams
Atlanta Reads: Vowel Team Sorts
This Reading Mama: Vowel Team Sorts
Kids vs. Phonics videos are short, funny, and a great way to kick-off or wrap-up a vowel team lesson.
In addition to learning more of the syllable types, 3rd graders will also refine their writing skills and learn more about punctuation. Check out the SC Standards page to learn how to teach writing and punctuation.
The titles below will help you teach the 6 syllable types. Want us to pull books for you? Contact us at 803-799-9084 and request to have books sent to your nearest Richland Library location.