- Definition
A syllable is a single sound unit within a word, usually containing one vowel sound. For example, the word "water" has two syllables: wa-ter.
The word 'banana' has three syllables, or beats: ba-na-na.
How to teach this in 30 seconds
Try this analogy: A syllable is like a beat or a clap you can hear inside a word.
Ask your child: How many claps can you find in your name?
Common mix-up: Kids may think each letter is a syllable. A syllable is a single beat of sound in a word, which often includes a group of letters.
Examples
- The word 'cat' has one syllable.
- The word 'apple' has two syllables: ap-ple.
syllable is a term used in Ontario’s Kindergarten to Grade 8 curriculum.
Where this shows up
The descriptions on this page are SmartStudy’s own original, plain-language writing — not the Ministry’s wording. They are aligned to the Ontario Curriculum, © King’s Printer for Ontario. For the Ministry’s official wording, see the source link below. SmartStudy is an independent service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Government of Ontario or the Ministry of Education. Ontario Curriculum and Resources ↗
