Word Parts

Base Words, Roots, and

Affixes

Quick WriteWhat do you know about word parts? What is a prefix? What is a suffix? What is a base word? What is a root? Give examples.

Write what you think. It doesn’t have to be perfect.

Base WordsA base word is a word part that

contains the core meaning of a word and can also stand alone.

Examples: form, operate, approve, believe, read, etc.

reform, cooperate, disapprove, believable, reading

Check for Understanding

Rally Robin with your partner to identify the base words in the following words:

1. Preselect2. Education3. Dancing4. Restate5. Happily6. Distasteful

RootsA root is a word part that

contains the core meaning of a word and cannot stand alone.

Examples: cred, man, bio, logy, etc.

incredible, manicure, biology

Partner TalkA – What is a base word? Give an example.

B – What is a root? Give an example.

A – Compare base words and roots.

B – Contrast base words and roots.

PrefixesA prefix is a word part

added to the beginning of a word that affects its meaning.

Examples: re, de, in, co, dis, etc.

reform, deflate, incredible, cooperate, disbelief

Check for Understanding

Rally Robin with your partner to identify the prefixes in the following words:

1. Preselect2. Deform3. Nonbeliever4. Restate5. Indoors6. Distasteful

SuffixesA suffix is a word part

added to the end of a word that affects its meaning.

Examples: tion, less, ful, er, etc.

education, careless, joyful, teacher

Partner TalkA – What is a prefix? Give an example.

B – What is a suffix? Give an example.

A – Compare prefixes and suffixes.

B – Contrast prefixes and suffixes..

Card SortUse your cards to build words with base words, prefixes, and/or suffixes.

As you build a word, write it in your notebook to build a list.

You may use a dictionary.

SummaryIn the summary section of your notes, restate what you’ve learned about word parts today. Be sure to define base words, roots, prefixes, and suffixes. Compare and contrast them. Give examples. You should write at least 5 sentences.