Strategy: Reading Multisyllabic Words
Appropriate Grade Level: K-3
Procedures/Steps:
Before instruction begins it is recommended that a certain sequence of teaching types of
syllables be followed; closed, open, vowel-consonant-silent e, vowel team, r-controlled,
and final stable syllables. When teaching each type one must introduce, explain, practice,
and master each syllable before moving on to the next type.
Step 1: When introducing a syllable type you need to use manipulatives, such as letter
tiles. The manipulatives will allow students to manipulate the words and break apart the
syllables like hit-hi, or bed-be. Also the teacher can put up charts that show/explain each
type allowing students to become familiar with each type.
Step 2: Practice mastery of single-syllable words by using Word sorts. For example:
Silent e
Closed
Open
tape
sat
make
pet
Step 3: Next have students read two-, then three- syllable words which help them decode
longer words. Next, read words that are two or three syllables in length containing closed
syllables such as the word (ab/sent) and (pun/ish/ment).
Step 4: After each syllable type is practiced correctly, then give students multisyllabic
words that have combinations of syllable types that they know. This gives students
strategies to chunk parts of words and figure out the vowel sound for each syllable.
Comments and/or tips:
*Having students decode words in connected text will help them figure out words and
work on fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.
*As students learn to read more multisyllabic words explanation of the schwa sound will
need to take place because it accounts for about 20% of all vowel sounds.
Source:
Knight-McKenna, M., (2008). Syllable types a strategy for reading multizyllabic words.
Teaching Exceptional Children, 40(3), 18-24.