What is a syllable pattern?

A syllable pattern is a way of describing the arrangement of stressed and unstressed syllables in a word. It helps you understand the rhythm of a word and how it might sound when spoken.

Here's a breakdown:

* Syllable: A basic unit of pronunciation in a word. It's a single sound that is made up of a vowel and any consonants that come before or after it.

* Stress: The emphasis or prominence given to a syllable in a word. Stressed syllables are typically louder and longer than unstressed syllables.

Common Syllable Patterns:

* Strong-Weak (SW): One stressed syllable followed by one unstressed syllable. Example: about, between, water

* Weak-Strong (WS): One unstressed syllable followed by one stressed syllable. Example: above, regard, delight

* Strong-Weak-Weak (SWW): One stressed syllable followed by two unstressed syllables. Example: happy, color, major

* Weak-Strong-Weak (WSW): One unstressed syllable followed by one stressed syllable followed by one unstressed syllable. Example: again, beside, repeat

Understanding Syllable Patterns:

* Poetry: Syllable patterns are essential for understanding the rhythm and meter of poetry.

* Pronunciation: Knowing syllable patterns can help you improve your pronunciation.

* Word Recognition: Syllable patterns help children learn to read by breaking down words into smaller units.

Example:

The word "happy" has a strong-weak-weak (SWW) syllable pattern. The first syllable "hap" is stressed, while the second and third syllables "py" are unstressed.

Let me know if you'd like more examples or have any other questions about syllable patterns!