What Are Prefixes?

A prefix is a small group of letters added to the beginning of a word. By adding a prefix, we can create a new word with a slightly different meaning. For example, the prefix re- means “again,” so when we add it to the word do, we get a new word–redo, which means “to do again.” Another example is the prefix un-, which means “not.” When added to the word happy, we get the new word unhappy, meaning “not happy.”

Why Learning Prefixes Is Important for Young Readers

Learning prefixes is a fantastic way to grow a child’s vocabulary. Understanding prefixes can help young readers break down new words and figure out their meanings. This can boost confidence in reading and helps with reading comprehension.

By learning just a few prefixes, children can create and understand many new words. For example, by knowing the prefix pre- (meaning “before”), they’ll recognize words like preschool (“before school”) and preview (“see before”).

Helpful Tips When Teaching Prefixes

• The most common prefixes are usually one- to -two syllables.
• The meaning of a prefix stays the same regardless of what word it’s added to.
• When a prefix is added to a word, the spelling of the base word typically stays the same.
• Prefixes are often used to say things more concisely. For example, rather than saying “I don’t agree with that,” you can say “I disagree.”

Common Prefixes and Their Meanings

Here are some of the most common prefixes that kids encounter. Each prefix has its meaning listed and can help form many words when added to a base word.

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Engaging Activities for Learning Prefixes

These activities can help make learning prefixes a fun and interactive experience. Here are some ideas to try at home or in the classroom:

1. Matching Games: Create a matching game where kids match prefixes with words or definitions. For example, pair re- with do to create redo or un- with do to create undo.

2. Prefix Hunt: When reading books or even signs along the road, look for prefixes and challenge your child to spot as many as possible as they read.

3. Prefix Flashcards: Use flashcards with a prefix on one side and example words on the other. This helps reinforce both the meaning of the prefix and its application in words.

4. Word Creation Challenge: Encourage kids to create their own words by adding prefixes to familiar words. How many words can they make with ex- or im-?

5. ABCmouse Prefix Activities: ABCmouse offers interactive resources for learning prefixes, with games and fun exercises designed to reinforce prefix learning. Here are a few examples:

Prefix (and Suffix) Worksheets

This collection of worksheets spotlights these key word parts and provides a fun way for children to grow their understanding of them.

Austin and Scout: The Well of Prefixes

In this game, children help Austin and Scout escape an ancient well by choosing the correct prefix and root word to complete sentences. Note: This game requires an ABCmouse subscription to play.