Six Syllable Types Chart
Every syllable has one vowel sound. There are six kinds of syllables.
Need more than one? Tap + for extra copies (up to 10).
How to do it
- Read the rule for each syllable type.
- Read the example words out loud.
- Notice the colored syllable in each word.
Teaching tip
Learn the six letter labels (C, O, E, V, R, LE). The other sheets use them. This sheet is aligned with Common Core RF.3.3c.
About this chart
Closed, open, silent e, vowel team, r-controlled and consonant-le, with a rule and example words for each.
What kids practice
Every syllable has one vowel sound, and there are six kinds of syllables: closed, open, silent e, vowel team, r-controlled and consonant-le. Knowing the type tells a reader what sound the vowel makes. Third graders use syllable types to break long words into parts they can read, like fan-tas-tic and tor-na-do.
Watch for
- Making every first syllable long. In lemon and camel, the first syllable is closed and short.
- Splitting off just the le in consonant-le words. The consonant goes with it, like ta-ble.
- Counting silent letters as their own syllable, like the e in cake.
It's free to print, as many copies as you need. See the full syllable types guide for 3rd grade.
More sheets in this set
2. Open or Closed?Words like ro-bot and rab-bit. Split each word, then decide if the first syllable is open or closed.
3. Sort by Syllable TypeA word bank to sort into closed, open, silent e, vowel team, r-controlled and consonant-le.
4. Split the WordTwo- and three-syllable words like fan-tas-tic to split and label with each syllable's type.
5. Build the WordMixed-up syllable cards like "der spi" to put in order and write as a word.
6. Consonant-le WordsWords like ta-ble, can-dle and puz-zle to split before the consonant-le.
7. Color by Syllable TypeA hidden picture made of one-syllable words: closed, open, silent e, vowel team and bossy r. Includes an answer key.