What is the short u sound?
The short u sound is the vowel sound you hear in words like sun and bug. It sounds like ŭ, as in “uh.”
Examples:
- u → sun
- u → cup
- u → bus
Note
If the word sounds like it has an “uh” sound in the middle, it often uses the short u.
How do we spell short u words?
Short u words are spelled with the vowel u followed by one or more consonants.
Examples:
- u + n → run
- u + g → bug
- u + t → cut
Note
Say the word slowly. Listen for the vowel sound you hear in the middle of the word.
Common short u spelling patterns
Many short u words follow simple spelling patterns that make them easier to read and write.
Patterns and Examples:
- -ug → bug, jug, rug
- -un → sun, fun, run
- -ut → cut, hut, nut
Note
Words that look alike often sound alike. Use patterns to help you spell new words.
Using short u words in sentences
Reading and writing short u words in sentences helps you remember their spelling.
Examples:
- The sun is up.
- I see a red bug.
- We had fun at the park.
Note
Check your spelling by rereading the sentence and listening for the short u sound.