What defines a closed syllable?

A closed syllable is defined as a syllable that ends with a consonant. This is critical because when a syllable ends with a consonant, the vowel sound within that syllable is typically short, as in the words "cat" or "dog."

In contrast, options suggesting that a closed syllable has no vowels or contains two vowels are incorrect because closed syllables must contain a vowel to be meaningful; they simply have a consonant at the end. Additionally, a syllable that ends with a vowel describes an open syllable, where the vowel sound is often long, as seen in words like "go" or "me." Understanding the characteristics of closed and open syllables is essential for teaching reading and phonics effectively.