Understanding New Words: Root Words
English: Year 5 & 6 National Curriculum, topic 1.1.3
Understanding New Words: Root Words
We can break down words into different parts to help us figure out new meanings of words. One way to understand the meaning of a word is to look at the root word.
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Importance of root words
- We work out the meaning of words based on the root word.
- The root word is the base word (so not the prefix or suffix!).
- For example: cycle is a root word.
Examples
- Hope is a root word in 'hopeful'.
- Happy is a root word in 'unhappy'.
More examples
- Swim is a root word in 'swimming'.
- Play is a root word in 'replay'.
Test yourself on Understanding New Words: Root Words
What is a root word?
Which sentences are correct about the word 'colourful'?