In the context of spelling, what defines an open syllable?

An open syllable is defined as a syllable that ends with a vowel sound. This means that the vowel at the end of the syllable is not closed off by a consonant, allowing it to be pronounced with a long sound, as in the word "go."

This characteristic of open syllables plays a critical role in phonics instruction, especially for early readers and writers. Understanding that an open syllable typically has a vowel that is pronounced with its long sound helps students decode and spell words more effectively.

The other options do not correctly represent the definition of an open syllable; for instance, a syllable that always ends with a consonant describes a closed syllable, while the concepts of prefixes and suffixes pertain to the structure of words rather than the definition of syllables themselves. Similarly, a syllable that only has consonants would not align with the definition of an open syllable.