Study root words, prefixes, and affixes through this fun, hands-on activity!

What you need:

  • Scissors
  • Pencil

How to prep:

  • Print the pages
  • Cut apart all the word parts and place them in separate areas with their label above the pile.
  • Optional: In the blank spaces, add your own prefixes, suffixes, or base words.

Directions:

  1. Spread out the word cards so you can see each word part. 

  2. Use the word mats to create new words.

  3. For each word, you must choose a base word to start.

  4. Then, you can choose a prefix, suffix, or both.

  5. If you unsure of the meaning of an affix, ask for help or research the answer.

  6. Record all the words you create. 

  7. Extension: Challenge yourself and create as many words as you can in a certain amount of time without reusing any word parts. 

Examples: 

re + tie = retie 

tall + est = tallest 

un + treat + able = untreatable