Phonics Principle 5
This is the final long vowel principle, and the final phonics principle in all.
When a word has two vowels side-by-side in the middle of the word, typically, but NOT ALWAYS, the second vowel will make the first vowel long. Example words: neat, bait, boat, say (YES, the /y/ is a vowel when it is in any position of the word except when it is the first letter of a word).
The student should 'walk' across the bottom of the word from left to right. For marking purposes, put a dot under any vowel. Then go above the word from right to left (backwards). Strike out the second vowel because it is typically not heard. Go above the first vowel and mark it with the long vowel symbol.
Now read the word according to your vowel markings. This is the key purpose for the marking system; it allows the child to 'see' words in a manner in which will allow him to find success in reading unknown words. With consistent practice, the child will begin to see words in this manner without needing to mark them!
Remember, when you finally get to multisyllabic words, EVERY SINGLE SYLLABLE must have ONE vowel SOUND. Reiterate that concept right now while you are working with just one-syllable words!
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boat say = Phonics Principle 5
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FYI: The pattern formed by Phonics Principle 5 is the final open syllable pattern. Whenever a syllable contains a long vowel sound, it is an open syllable. The pattern of letters is called CVVC, which means (consonant, vowel, vowel, consonant).
The following is link to CVVC words that you can use to practice Phonics Principle 5: