Root Words

Worksheet Description

The Word Study: Root Words worksheet is a pedagogical tool that guides students through the exploration of a word’s origins and its derivative forms. It begins by asking the student to write down a chosen word, then identify and define its root. The worksheet prompts the student to research and note the root’s country of origin and its age, providing historical context. Students are also asked to use the word in a sentence, add any prefixes or suffixes to create new words, and list other words that share the same root.

This worksheet educates students on the concept of root words, which are the fundamental components from which many words in a language are formed. It teaches them to understand the etymology of words, tracing them back to their linguistic heritage. By manipulating the root with prefixes and suffixes, students learn how words evolve and develop in complexity. Additionally, this exercise helps in expanding vocabulary by connecting new words with familiar roots, thereby enhancing language acquisition and retention.