Word Structure

By: Brooke Helling

Word Parts

• Prefix-added to the beginning of the word; may change the word’s meaning or form.
• Base word-can stand alone and have meaning.
• Suffix-added to the ending of the word; may change the word’s meaning or form.

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• Example: uncomfortable
• Can you determine the base word, prefix, and suffix?
• How does the addition of the prefix change the word’s meaning?

Discussion

How does understanding word parts, such as prefixes and suffixes, help us with reading?

Check out this list of common Greek and Latin roots. Learning the meanings will help you understand certain words more easily.

Try it!

Look at the following words. Determine if the word has a prefix or suffix (or both) and what the base word is.

• trainer
• rewrite
• precook
• enclose
• unhelpful
• fearless
• remarkable

Partner Work

Important note!

A suffix is different than an ending.

• A suffix is a group of letters that changes the meaning or form of the word; an ending, such as -s, -ing, and -ed, changes the number or tense only.

Practice

Check out this cool website that has all kind of practice and games for prefixes and suffixes.