ShortConsonant + LE word family
-dle Words
/dษl/ โ words that share the -dle pattern
The -dle ending works the same way as -ble: the final le is its own syllable, /dษl/, and the d joins it to close out the word.
How the -dle family works
Keep the ending -dle together, then add or change the beginning sound. Read through the whole word from left to right instead of guessing from its first letter.
8 reviewed examples
-dle word list
Begin with the shorter words. Add the second group only after blends and digraphs in those words have been taught.
Start here
After blends or digraphs
A speaker appears only where a reviewed recording is currently available. Every listed spelling has still been checked for the target pattern.
Listening check
Listen and choose the -dle word
Question 1 of 5
Now read the same words aloud and use one in a sentence.
Explore another familyMove into connected text
Read -dle words in sentences
1Light the candle.
2Hold the handle.
3A puddle is in the middle.
4Solve the riddle.
5The baby is in the cradle.
Ask the learner to underline the -dle word, decode it, and then reread the complete sentence naturally.
Spelling and pronunciation
Keep this family accurate
Count back three letters from the end: dle. Can-dle and pud-dle both split right before that final chunk.
Five-minute routine
Practise without memorizing the list
Cover the list and reveal one word at a time. Say each sound, blend, then reread the word normally.
Build candle, then exchange its first sound to make another real word from this page.
Read one sentence, dictate one target word, and ask the learner to explain which letters spell the shared ending.
Ready-to-print practice
Print this -dle word lesson
The print layout keeps the reviewed word list, sentences, contrast, and practice routine while removing navigation and audio controls.