Open and Closed Syllables

An open syllable ends with a vowel sound and the vowel is usually long. Example: 'pu' in 'puppy'.

A closed syllable ends with a consonant and the vowel is usually short. Example: 'bag' in 'bagel'.

There are 2 syllables in 'dishpan'.

'can' is a closed syllable because it ends with a consonant.

'go' is an open syllable because it ends with a vowel.

The vowel in a closed syllable is usually short.

The vowel in an open syllable is usually long.

'pan' is a closed syllable.

'he' is an open syllable.

A closed syllable has a consonant after the vowel.