Prefixes are the added beginning to a word to change its meaning. 

For example:

Regain—re means again. 

Semicircle—semi means half. 

International—inter means between.   

In addition to understanding how to use prefixes properly, knowing when to use them helps students with their spelling, building a larger, more diverse vocabulary!  

Get Your Students Interested in Prefix Practice

Use this resource in your reading station, as a guided reading activity, or as a whole class exercise (see below) to practise identifying the correct prefix of the word so that it makes sense in context.

Students will read the cards one at a time. On the recording sheet provided, they will select from the missing prefix that completes the sentence.  

As a reading station activity, we recommend punching a hole in the corner of each task card and placing them on a binder ring. This helps keep them organised and together, so you never lose a card in a pocket or under a desk. 

An answer key is included with your download so that students can self-check their work. 

Scaffolding + Extension Tips 

Challenge students who already understand the concept to write sentences using the prefix word. 

Support students who need help understanding the concepts by assigning pairs for additional support. 

More Activities for Prefix Practice

Use this resource as independent practise for fast finishers and full-class learning opportunities like scoot activities, lesson reviews, comprehension assessments, and more.

🖼️ Gallery Walk (Scoot Activity)

Hang the cards around the room and provide students (or pairs) with a recording sheet to write the answer for each task card. When you say “Scoot,” students will move to the next card, completing all of them. 

✍️ Group Lesson 

No need to break out the scissors yet with this activity! Present the cards using your smartboard or another projection device and have students record their answers on a recording sheet or notebooks. They can work through the task cards individually or in pairs/teams. 

👋 Exit Activity

After you go through your vocabulary lesson, pass out cards to students as a Language Arts exercise. They will answer independently. Provide them with a sticky note so they can turn in their answer as a formative assessment, making sure to write their name on the sticky note.

Easily Prepare This Resource for Your Students

Print on cardstock for added durability and longevity. Place all pieces in a folder or large envelope for easy access. 

Keep the task cards together by punching a hole in each corner and placing them on a binder ring. 

To turn this teaching resource into a sustainable activity, print a few recording sheets on cardstock and slip them into dry-erase sleeves. Students can record their answers with a dry-erase marker and then erase and reuse them.

Because this activity includes an answer sheet, we recommend printing one copy of the entire file first. Then, make photocopies of the blank worksheet for students to complete. 

Before You Download

Use the dropdown icon on the Download button to choose between the PDF or Google Slides version of this resource. A recording sheet and answer key are also included with this download.

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This resource was created by Kiri Sowers, a Teach Starter Collaborator.