Prefixes and Suffixes Introduction

Understanding prefixes and suffixes multiplies vocabulary exponentially. If you know 'happy' and 'un-', you can read 'unhappy' without memorizing it separately.

• Framework: Montessori
• Unit: Language
• Learning area: Word Study
• Level: Ages 5-6

Objectives

• Understand word parts add meaning
• Recognize common prefixes and suffixes
• Build vocabulary through word analysis
• Develop morphological awareness

Materials

• Prefix/suffix cards (un-, re-, pre-, -ing, -ed, -s)
• Base word cards
• Word building activities

Instructions

1. Present base word: 'happy'. 2. Add prefix: 'un-' means 'not'. 3. Build 'unhappy' and discuss meaning. 4. Practice with other un- words. 5. Introduce suffixes: -ing, -ed. 6. Build word families with affixes.

Educator tip

Connect to words children already use. 'You said re-do—what does re- mean?'

Assessment

Child uses prefix and suffix knowledge to decode and understand new words.

More from Language

• Object Box: Initial Sounds
• Rhyming Activities
• Sandpaper Letters: Consonants
• Metal Insets
• Moveable Alphabet: Word Building
• Pink, Blue, Green Reading Series
• Function of Words: Grammar Introduction
• Poetry Reading and Writing