Morph Your Spelling Lessons from Average to Ace with Prefixes, Suffixes, and Root Words

Morphology is the study of words and their structure. 

Morpheme Definition

A morpheme is the smallest meaningful unit or part of a word. Prefixes, suffixes, root words, and base words are all morphemes. Being aware of these handy word-parts has many advantages. Morphology knowledge is not only beneficial when students are trying to spell new words but also when they are decoding (reading) more complex words. When armed with the knowledge of how words are built, the meaning relationships between words are more easily explored.

Enliven the teaching of word parts while extending your students’ vocabulary and comprehension through this Bingo game.

There are 20 different bingo cards in this resource. Each card includes word parts that are either root words, prefixes, or suffixes. Every calling card lists a definition and its matching word part. The caller chooses a calling card and reads the definition ONLY to the players. Students volunteer the word part they think matches the definition. Once the correct word part has been identified, students cover it with a counter if it appears on their bingo card.

Tips for Differentiation + Scaffolding 

If you have a mixture of above and below-level learners, check out these suggestions for keeping students on track with the concepts: 

🆘 Support Struggling Students

Assist students who need help understanding the concepts by providing access to previous assignments, posters, and anchor charts for them to recall past lessons. The bingo game itself could be simplified by having several players share one bingo card. Encourage the students to discuss/research all the word parts on their cards before beginning the game.

➕ A Greater Challenge 

Challenge those students who require extension by omitting step 3 of the instructions. Alternatively, students could create their own bingo game using a different selection of morphemes.

Easily Prepare This Resource for Your Students

Use the dropdown icon on the Download button to choose between this resource’s PDF or editable Google Slides version. 

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

This resource was created by Jennifer Hall, a Teach Starter Collaborator.