Suffixes
Suffixes are important word parts that are added to the end of  base or root words.  Suffixes can alter the meaning and the part of speech of the word it is added to.  The GrammarSong video “Word Detective” has a “private-eye” feel to it, as words are investigated and defined using their suffixes as “clues.”  The GrammarSong activities provide  real life,  paper/pencil, and game formatted activities for learning and reinforcing skills.

Review Video & Follow These Instructional Guidelines

Third Grade

  • Notice word suffixes when reading real literature or within a basal text.

Fourth Grade

  • Complete “Suffix Matching,” “Suffix Matching Quiz,” and “Suffix Sort” grammar sheets.  These grammar sheets can be used independently during literacy centers or as a formative assessment. Notice words containing suffixes when reading.  Note how the suffix affects the meaning of the root or base word.
  • Print out and play “Affix Bingo” to practice matching prefixes and suffixes with their meanings.  Print out and use the “Applying Affixes to Determine Word Meanings” activity as a teacher-led center or as an independent writing center. 

Fifth Grade

  • Review “Suffix Matching,” “Suffix Matching Quiz,” and “Suffix Sort” grammar sheets.  These grammar sheets can be used independently during literacy centers or as a formative assessment. Notice words containing suffixes when reading.  
  • Note how the suffix affects the meaning of the root or base word when reading in literature or basal texts.  Extend this into other subject areas like math and science.  
  • Print out and play “Affix Bingo” to practice matching prefixes and suffixes with their meanings.  Print out and use the “Applying Affixes to Determine Word Meanings” activity as a teacher-led center or as an independent writing center.