Greek Bases graph, gram and Latin Bases scrib, script Mean “write”
Define these words in context using the root meaning “write” Create a diagram An ungrammatical sentence A mathematical graph A polygraph test A child’s scribble A school transcript A doctor’s prescription To describe an event Indescribable joy
Notice: “Un” in ungrammatical is negating prefix “Poly” (many) + “graph” (write) = a machine that was meant to “write” the “many” pulses of a person’s heart rate to detect lying
Notice: “le” in “scribble” means “small” – insignificant writing “trans” (movement) + “script” (write) = “writing” that was “moved” from one form (spoken) to another (text)
Notice: “Pre” (before) + “scription” (writing) = a note requiring a doctor’s “written” signature “before” medicine can be received “In” in “indescribable” is a negating prefix
Complete the sentences with the words that best fit. scribe seismograph calligrapher graphomaniac 1. A __________is someone who is overly fond of writing. 2. A ____________ is someone who specializes in artistic handwriting. 3. A ____________ records earthquakes and tremors. 4. Today, a ____________ is someone who copies texts. But in ancient times, it was someone who copied, taught, or studied the sacred laws of Scripture.
Common Prefixes to Know de- = down, off from inter- = between, among trac-, tract- = pull, draw, drag ab- = away, from con-, com- = with, together, very pro- = forward, for in-, im- = in, on, into, not re- = back, again ad- = to, toward, add to