The Schwa Sound

Jul 30, 2023

3 min read

The schwa sound is the most common vowel sound in English. Sometimes we call it the lazy schwa because we put no effort into making the sound. We make the schwa sound in unstressed syllables. Depending on your accent, the schwa sound can sound very similar to the short /u/ sound. All of the vowels and the letter y can make the schwa sound.

Introducing the Schwa Sound

Look at the pictures below. Pay attention to the letters making the schwa sound.

Practice the Schwa Sound

The best way we can remember the sounds letters make is to practice. Our Learning to Read workbook has cards you can use to practice with the schwa sound. You can also make your own notecards to practice letters and sounds. Just a few minutes of practice a day will make a huge difference!

Reading Words

Congratulations! You can now read more words! You can practice reading the words on the chart.

Writing Practice

You can also practice writing words with the schwa sound. Make sure you follow explicit handwriting instructions to ensure you are writing efficiently. Writing efficiently is a huge part of building writing stamina.

Video Guidance

Check out our video about the schwa sound!

You can use this video to prepare for a lesson with your student, or your student can work with the video independently.

LEARNING TO DECODE PROGRAM

Take your learning to the next level with our Learning to Read Workbook!

Learning to read is a systematic process that requires explicit instruction. Our learning to read program breaks down every sound students need to know to learn how to read. Every step of the program includes picture examples, sound practice, reading practice, and writing practice.

The best part of the program is that anyone who is a competent reader can help a student through the program. Use our webpages, videos, and the pages in the workbook to guide your student’s learning. Students work through the program at their own pace. This is a perfect supplement to what students are learning in school.