Afraid has a short vowel sound on the first syllable and a long vowel sound on the second.
Vowels and consonants are two types of letters in the English alphabet. A vowel sound is created when air flows smoothly, without interruption, through the throat and mouth. Different vowels sounds are produced as a speaker changes shape and placement of articulators (parts of the throat and mouth).
In contrast, consonant sounds happen when the flow of air is obstructed or interrupted. If this sounds confusing, try making the “p” sound and the “k” sound.
You will notice that, in creating the sound, you have manipulated your mouth and tongue to briefly interrupt air flow from your throat.
Consonant sounds have a distinct beginning and end, while vowel sounds flow. The pronunciation of each vowel is determined by the position of the vowel in a syllable, and by the letters that follow it. Vowel sounds can be short, long, or silent.
Learn more about long and short vowel sounds at Thoughtco.com.
Vowels are one of the most important building blocks of speech, but some children have difficulty learning how they work. Take a look at this lesson plan on how to teach vowels to kindergarteners shared by Brighthubeducation.com.