We have several options for dividing a word into syllables to identify the correct vowel sound. Based on the number and types of consonants and patterns, we will try the more obvious patterns first. If that doesn’t work, we will “try again.”

When preparing to divide a word, first circle any suffixes. Most often, they form their own syllables, so you can divide before. Identify and mark the vowels and then count the consonants.

With one consonant between vowels, try dividing before the consonant first. If that makes a real word, you are done. If not, “try again” by dividing after the consonant.

With two consonants between vowels, try dividing between the consonants first. If that makes a real word, you are done. If it doesn’t, “try again” looking for patterns like R-Blends, L-Blends, digraphs, and glued sounds that may want to stick together.

With three consonants between vowels, try dividing after the first consonant unless there is a blend, digraph, trigraph, or glued sound that wants to stick together or form smaller words in a compound word.  If that makes a real word, you are done.

With four consonants between vowels, try dividing after the first consonant. If that makes a real word, you are done. If it doesn’t, “try again” looking for the smaller words of a compound word.

To decode multisyllable words, we still use the five-step DECODE procedure. However, we have additional options in the first step, Mark and Say.

Step One: Mark and Say: 

• Circle any suffixes. Remember, suffixes often create their own syllables.
• Identify and mark the vowels. Mark each vowel with a small “v” underneath (or another simple symbol).
• Count the consonants between vowels. 
• Based on the number and type of consonants, decide how to divide the word.  Try the most likely division option first, based on the patterns you see. 
• Mark and Say each syllable, focusing on the correct vowel sound. Mark and Say consonants as needed.

Step Two: Touch and Say each syllable separately.  

Step Three: Blend and Say the syllables together slowly. If it’s not coming together, check the audio, and Try Again by going back to Mark and Say using another option.

Step Four: Blend and Say the syllables together until naturally spoken. 

Step Five: You may check the audio at any time. Be sure to check your answer.