Phonics Rule: SFLZ Spelling Rule If a word has: • 1 syllable • 1 short vowel • Ends with s, l, f, or z ➡️ DOUBLE the final consonant! Examples: mess wall buff buzz This helps students spell correctly and read more smoothly. Once students master this rule, spelling and reading become easier and more predictable. This rule can be introduced as early as age 5 or 6, when students begin reading and spelling simple short vowel words.