What is the term for vowel teams or pairs that make one sound?

The correct term for vowel teams or pairs that make one sound is "vowel digraph." This term specifically refers to two vowels that come together to create a single sound, such as in the words "boat," "rain," or "team." In each of these examples, the two vowels combine to produce a unique phoneme that is different from the individual sounds of the vowels when pronounced separately.

Understanding this concept is crucial in phonics instruction and literacy development, as vowel digraphs play a significant role in decoding words and improving reading fluency. Recognizing vowel digraphs allows readers to identify patterns in spelling and pronunciation, which is essential for proficient reading and writing.