FLOSS rule worksheets
Fill in the missing letters in 15 double consonant (FLOSS) words, with an answer key · 1 page + answer key
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The FLOSS rule is a spelling rule: in a one-syllable word with a short vowel, an f, l, s or z right after the vowel is usually doubled. Think puff, bell, kiss and buzz. The name comes from the letters themselves: f, l, s (twice).
On this sheet each word is missing its double letters. Your child reads the start of the word, chooses ff, ll, ss or zz, writes it and reads the word. Only one choice makes a real word each time.
There are a few exceptions (bus, yes, gas, if, this), so call it a strong pattern, not a law. Many programs teach FLOSS soon after short vowel CVC words.
Tips for using it
- Point out that the double letters make one sound, so bell has three sounds, not four.
- Ask your child to spot FLOSS words in a book: they're everywhere (will, off, miss).
Variations
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What is the FLOSS rule?
After a short vowel in a one-syllable word, double f, l, s or z at the end: cliff, hill, mess, fuzz.
What are exceptions to the FLOSS rule?
Common ones include bus, yes, gas, if, this, us and pal. They're worth learning as exceptions.