How to Teach Syllabication
Syllabication is the process of dividing words into syllables. Emergent readers begin grasping this concept almost immediately. Teaching students how to divide words will improve their reading fluency, making it easier for the eyes to break a word apart in sections, rather than letters.
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Instructions
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Create flash cards by writing 1- and 2-syllable words on index cards.
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Display a 1-syllable word card, such as "camp." Read the word to the students, then read it again and clap once as you read it. Tell students that this is a 1-syllable word. You know it is a one syllable word, because it took only one clap to say the word.
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Have the students practice reading and clapping out the word with you. Watch students closely for correct reading and clapping time.
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Put other 1-syllable words up on a blackboard or easel. Some good examples are "ball," "shoe" and "ant." Practice reading and clapping these words.
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Post a 2-syllable word, such as "campout." Read the word and clap once for each syllable as you say the word. Tell your students that this is a 2-syllable word. You know it is a 2-syllable word because you clapped twice. Practice reading and clapping this word, and other 2-syllable words. Good examples are "ballpark," "shoelace" and "anthill."
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Move to longer words that contain more syllables as the month progresses. Assess student success by giving out fun worksheets and playing games.
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Tips & Warnings
For emerging readers, use words that are no more than two syllables. Intermediate readers should be able to read 3- to 4-syllable words, and advanced readers can read above words above four syllables.
