What defines an open syllable in reading instruction?

An open syllable is defined as a syllable that ends with a vowel sound, which is the key characteristic that distinguishes it from other types of syllables. In an open syllable, the vowel is typically long and is not followed by a consonant, allowing it to stand alone at the end of the syllable. This is crucial in reading instruction because understanding the structure of open syllables can greatly aid students in decoding and pronouncing words correctly.

For instance, in the word "he," the syllable is open; it ends with the vowel "e," which gives the vowel its long sound. This understanding helps students when they encounter similar syllable structures within new words. Therefore, identifying that an open syllable always features a single vowel sound at the end is essential for developing phonemic awareness and decoding skills.