Which syllable type corresponds to the word "file"?

The word "file" corresponds to the silent-e syllable type. This type of syllable often includes a long vowel sound followed by a consonant, with an "e" at the end of the word that is not pronounced but changes the way the vowel is pronounced. In "file," the presence of the silent "e" at the end indicates that the vowel "i" should be pronounced with a long sound, resulting in the pronunciation of the word as /faɪl/. This distinction is important in teaching reading and spelling, as understanding syllable types can help students decode unfamiliar words more effectively.

In contrast, the closed syllable type would typically have a short vowel followed by a consonant, such as in the word "cat." An open syllable ends in a vowel and usually has a long vowel sound, as seen in the word "she." A diphthong involves a complex vowel sound that begins with one vowel sound and glides into another, like in "coin." Thus, the silent-e syllable type is what applies to the word "file," highlighting the significant role of the "e" in modifying the vowel sound.