* Vowels: Vowels are sounds made with your mouth open. They can be long or short.
* Short Vowels: Short vowels make a quick, sharp sound. Think of the "a" in "cat" or the "i" in "pig."
* Long Vowels: Long vowels make a drawn-out sound, often sounding like the letter's name. Think of the "a" in "cake" or the "e" in "bee."
In "gulf," the "u" is a short vowel. It makes the sound you hear in "up" or "cup," a quick, sharp sound.