This pattern has been discussed before in the Long A section, but it is also used to make Long E sounds. As well, they must be more than one syllable long, or else they make a Long I sound. Remember that the y’s that make a Long E sound are at the end of the word (in singular form) and are preceded by a consonant. Other than those mentioned above, the rule is pretty consistent. These words include July, multiply, rely, apply, and others. “-ly” Some longer “-ly” words do not make a Long E, but instead make a Long I.Ending a word with a “-y” is very common, so learning which vowel sound that “y” makes will be an important step in your child’s reading journey. This might take a while to remember, but at least it is a rule, and not just memorizing which words take which vowel sound. If it is a single syllable word, it will make a Long I (like “fly”), and if it has more than one syllable it will make a Long E sound (like “ready”). When a word ends in a letter “y” and the “y” is preceded by a consonant (like “baby,” but not like “say”), then that “y” is going to make one of two vowel sounds. Some -ear words (b ear, p ear, w ear, sw ear).-ealth words (w ealth, st ealth, and h ealth).Some -ead words (br ead, h ead, spr ead).-eau words (b eautiful (Long U sound), bur eau (Long O sound)).Just remember to keep in mind those -eau, -ealth, -ear, and -ead exceptions to the rule. Besides the exceptions listed below, the letters “ea” will usually combine to make a Long E sound. The “ea” pattern for Long E vowels is usually accurate, but it does have some important and commonly used exceptions. There are no exceptions, what a relief! 3. When you see a word with “ee” it will make a Long E sound and nothing else. As well, it is very easy to teach to your child as it only involves e’s, no extra vowels to confuse them. Important Words with “Magic E Words” (e_e)Ī very reliable pattern to learn for the Long E. It should be the first long vowel pattern you teach your child. The “Magic E” pattern is very consistent, and it is shared among all the long vowels. “Magic E” jumps over a letter and makes your short /e/ into a Long E. The easiest pattern to teach your child is words with Magic E.

Try to practice reading with your children whenever you can so that they can become familiar with these patterns as quickly as possible. Learning the patterns that determine whether an “e” is a short /e/ or a Long E will take time and patience. Most of the work your child will need to do is in learning to identify the patterns of this long vowel. Most children do not have problems making this sound. To make the Long E sound, just say its name (like the “ee” in “see”). Like the “A” long vowel, the Long E, is also easy to pronounce. Or take a look at our other Long Vowel lessons: If you need any more phonics help, check out our Vowels and Consonants Information Page for lessons, flashcards, and articles. As your child progresses, you can start to introduce the exceptions and less common patterns listed below.

I suggest that you start with the “ Magic E,” “ee,” and “ea patterns as they are the most common and the easiest to learn. Learning the Long E may take your child a while, this is normal. Long E has many patterns with many exceptions. If you missed the Long A phonics lesson, I would suggest that you start there. 6 Long E Vowel Patterns 6 Long E Vowel Patternsįor this phonics lesson, we will be looking at the Long E and the 6 patterns that your child can learn to help them identify it.

Long e sound