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R-Controlled Syllables with 'or': Comprehensive Word List and Teaching Resources

Teaching r-controlled syllables, particularly words containing the 'or' sound pattern, is a fundamental component of phonics instruction. These word patterns help students recognize and decode common English words more effectively, building their reading fluency and spelling accuracy.

Understanding R-Controlled 'or' Words

R-controlled vowels occur when the letter 'r' follows a vowel, changing its sound. In the case of 'or' words, this combination creates a distinct sound that's neither the short 'o' nor the long 'o' sound, but rather a unique sound as heard in words like "fort" and "storm."

Common Core Standards Alignment

These r-controlled 'or' words align with several Common Core Standards, particularly in the early elementary grades where phonics patterns are emphasized. The most relevant standards include:

  • CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.2.2.D: Generalize learned spelling patterns when writing words
  • CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.3.2.F: Use spelling patterns and generalizations in writing words

These standards are particularly relevant because r-controlled syllables represent a consistent spelling pattern that students can learn and apply across multiple words. Understanding the 'or' pattern helps students recognize and spell words independently, fulfilling the requirement to use spelling patterns and generalizations in their writing.

Complete Word List for R-Controlled 'or' Words

Basic Words

  • fort
  • port
  • sport
  • sort
  • short
  • fork
  • cork
  • pork
  • born
  • corn
  • horn
  • worn
  • thorn
  • form
  • storm

Intermediate Words

  • cord
  • lord
  • ford
  • porch
  • torch
  • north
  • horse
  • force
  • order
  • border
  • corner
  • morning
  • forest
  • normal
  • glory
  • story
  • orange

Advanced Words

  • horrible
  • correct
  • forget
  • forgive
  • forever
  • perform
  • platform
  • uniform
  • record
  • favorite
  • export
  • import
  • airport
  • report
  • support
  • important
  • history
  • victory
  • territory

Words Ending in -or

  • sailor
  • tailor
  • actor
  • tractor
  • doctor
  • motor
  • favor
  • flavor
  • major
  • mayor
  • author
  • labor
  • harbor
  • armor
  • error
  • horror
  • neighbor
  • humor
  • terror
  • visitor

Teaching Tips

When teaching these words, start with the simpler, single-syllable words before progressing to more complex multi-syllabic words. Group words with similar patterns together to help students recognize and internalize the spelling patterns.

Practice and Assessment

Regular practice with these words through various activities helps students master the 'or' sound pattern. Consider using dictation exercises, word sorts, and reading passages that feature these words prominently.

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Additional Resources

Consider supplementing your instruction with phonics games, flashcards, and reading materials that feature these words. Regular review and practice will help students internalize these spelling patterns and apply them correctly in their writing.