Make the Word
Add a prefix or a suffix to the root word to match the meaning. Write the new word.
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This is sheet #79524601.
How to do it
- Read the meaning.
- Pick the prefix or suffix that matches it.
- Add it to the root word and write the new word.
Teaching tip
Use the chart to find which part matches each meaning. This sheet is aligned with Common Core RF.3.3a.
About this worksheet
Meanings like "can be washed" with a root word. Add a prefix or suffix to make the word.
What kids practice
A root word is the main part of a word. A prefix goes at the start and a suffix goes at the end, and each one changes the meaning. Third graders learn prefixes like dis-, mis-, pre-, non- and over- and suffixes like -able, -ment, -ness, -y and -est. They use the parts to read longer words and work out what they mean.
Watch for
- Thinking every word that starts with un or re has a prefix. Uncle and read don't.
- Reading the meaning backward, like thinking preheat means heat again.
- Mixing up -ful and -less, which mean the opposite of each other.
It's free to print, with Fewer, Standard or More on the page and an answer key. See the full prefixes, suffixes and roots guide for 3rd grade.
More sheets in this set
- See it all
1. Prefix, Suffix and Root ChartPrefixes un- re- dis- mis- pre- non- over- and suffixes -ful -less -ly -er -or -able -ment -ness -y -est, with meanings and examples. 
2. Find the PartsWords like unhelpful and disagreement to split into prefix, root word and suffix.
4. What Does It Mean?Words with their prefixes and suffixes in color. Circle what each word means.
5. Word WebsRoot words like help, kind and play with four new words to build from each one.
6. Finish the SentenceSentences to complete with words like unbreakable, preview and kindness from a word box.
7. Color by PrefixA hidden picture made of words with the prefixes un-, re-, pre-, dis- and mis-. Includes an answer key.