When encountering a multisyllabic word, what should a student do first?

When encountering a multisyllabic word, the first step a student should take is to locate the vowels. This approach is essential because vowels are critical in determining the syllable structure of a word. Identifying the vowels helps the student break the word down into manageable syllables, making it easier to pronounce and understand.

By focusing on the vowels, a student can also gain insights into the word's phonetic patterns and potential stresses within syllables, which are crucial for correct pronunciation. This foundational step provides a clearer pathway for decoding the word, ultimately enhancing the student's reading fluency and comprehension.