Base words are simple words that carry the main meaning. Other words can be formed by adding prefixes or suffixes to them.
A base word can stand on its own as a complete word.
Prefixes are groups of letters added to the beginning of a base word. They change the word’s meaning.
Knowing prefixes helps you understand the meaning of new words quickly.
Suffixes are groups of letters added to the end of a base word. They often change how the word is used in a sentence.
Suffixes can change a word’s part of speech, such as from a noun to an adjective.
You can add both a prefix and a suffix to a base word to create a new word with a new meaning.
Prefixes and suffixes never stand alone. They must be attached to base words.
Understanding base words, prefixes, and suffixes helps you figure out the meaning of unfamiliar words when you read and write.
This skill makes you a stronger reader and writer, aligned with the USA Common Core Standard.