1. Decoding/Phonics Word Structure: Root Word + Suffix Problem: Long words that are hard to read! Solution:Try breaking the long word into smaller parts: such as prefixes, root word, and suffixes. (Remember: A prefix is a word part that is added to the beginning of a word to change the meaning of that word. A suffix is a word part that is added to the end of a root word to change the meaning of that word.) Example: helpful = help + ful. The root word is help and the suffix is –ful. Directions: Read the words in the fire clip art and sort them into groups that have the same suffix. Next, write them on a lined sheet of paper. Circle the root words and write a simple definition for each word. Confirm the word meanings by using a dictionary. If you were wrong, change the definition you wrote down.

2. suitable

3. agreement

4. careless

5. comfortable

6. department

7. joyful

8. laughable

9. poisonous

10. worthless

11. statement

12. government

13. payment

14. worthless

15. fearless

16. playful