Which of the following best describes an open syllable?

An open syllable is defined as a syllable that ends in a vowel sound, which typically makes the long vowel sound or "says its name." In contrast to closed syllables, which end in a consonant and usually produce a short vowel sound, open syllables allow the vowel to be free at the end. This characteristic makes them essential for understanding vowel pronunciation in English phonics.

For instance, the word "he" contains an open syllable where the vowel 'e' is not followed by a consonant, allowing it to produce its long sound. Understanding this concept is critical for helping students decode words accurately, particularly when teaching reading and pronunciation skills.