Decoding the Short U Sound
- Cate O'Donnell
- Jul 30, 2023
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 7, 2024
We already know the letter u can make the short /u/ sound in a closed syllable.
Introducing the Short U Sound
Look at the pictures below. Pay attention to the letters making the short /u/ sound.
Other letters can make the short /u/ sound too, but these spellings are less common.
OU – The letters ou can make the short /u/ sound. We often see this sound at the end of words making the /us/ sound spelled ous.
O – The letter o can make the short /u/ sound. This usually happens when it comes before n, v, or th.
Look at the pictures below. Pay attention to the letters making the short /u/ sound.
Practice the Short U Sound
The best way we can remember the sounds letters make is to practice. Our Learning to Read workbook has cards you can use to practice with the short /u/ sound. You can also make your own notecards to practice letters and sounds. Just a few minutes of practice a day will make a huge difference!
Reading Words
Congratulations! You can now read more words! You can practice reading the words on the chart.
Writing Practice
You can also practice writing words with the short /u/ sound. Make sure you follow explicit handwriting instructions to ensure you are writing efficiently. Writing efficiently is a huge part of building writing stamina.
Video Guidance
You can use this video to prepare for a lesson with your student, or your student can work with the video independently.
LEARNING TO DECODE PROGRAM
Take your learning to the next level with our Learning to Read Workbook!
Learning to read is a systematic process that requires explicit instruction. Our learning to read program breaks down every sound students need to know to learn how to read. Every step of the program includes picture examples, sound practice, reading practice, and writing practice.
The best part of the program is that anyone who is a competent reader can help a student through the program. Use our webpages, videos, and the pages in the workbook to guide your student’s learning. Students work through the program at their own pace. This is a perfect supplement to what students are learning in school.
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