Which generalization about English words should be taught first to assist a struggling reader whose vowel sounds are affected by syllable structure?

The focus on syllable structure is essential for understanding vowel sounds, especially for struggling readers. The statement about syllable endings provides a fundamental rule that can significantly aid readers in predicting vowel sounds based on word structure.

When syllables end in a consonant, the typical pattern in English is that the preceding vowel is pronounced with a short sound. This rule helps learners recognize how the arrangement of sounds can influence the pronunciation of vowels. For instance, in the word "cat," the vowel "a" is short because it is followed by the consonant "t," which reinforces this phonetic pattern.

Grasping this principle allows readers to develop better decoding skills, giving them a strategic approach to tackle unfamiliar words. As they practice applying this knowledge, they become more confident in their reading abilities, which can improve their overall literacy skills.

The other options, while relevant to understanding vowel sounds, do not directly address how syllable structure impacts vowel length, making them less effective as starting points for those struggling with vowel sounds.