Prefixes and Suffixes
From FreeReading
| Activity Type: Build Accuracy |
| Activity Form: Standard |
| Grade: 4, 5 |
| Group Size: Pair, Small Group |
| Length: 30 minutes |
| Materials: |
| Goal: Use vocabulary words with prefixes and suffixes |
| Items: Prefixes and suffixes |
What to do
- Remind students of the definition of a prefix. A prefix is a group of letters added to the beginning of a word to change its meaning. For example, dis + agree = disagree. Who can remind us of what a prefix is and give an example?
- Remind students of the definition of a suffix. A suffix is a group of letters added to the end of a word to change its meaning. For example, use + less = useless. Who can tell us what a suffix is and give an example?
- Contrast prefix and suffix. A prefix comes at the beginning of a word and a suffix comes at the end. Both change the meaning of the root word in some way.
- Create some sample sentences with missing elements and have students point out the prefixes and suffixes. I went to the farm and I met the __________. (farmer) When the man said “Peanut butter tastes bad,” I had to ______________. (disagree) A person who sails is called a _________. (sailor) He was ____________ to go to the birthday party, because he had the measles. (unable)
- Introduce the worksheet and be sure everyone knows what to do. Have students work individually or in pairs. Reading aloud to one another can help with the meaning. When complete, have students share their work, explaining their thinking about why they chose the words they did.
- To extend the activity, divide the group into pairs. Allow five minutes to brainstorm words that can be made with prefixes. Then do the same for suffixes. Share the lists.
- For more practice, create cards with prefixes, suffixes, and root words and make as many words as possible by putting the cards together.