A prefix is a group of letters added before a word to change its meaning. Understanding prefixes can help you figure out the meanings of new words and improve your vocabulary. Here are some common prefixes:
re-: meaning "again" or "back" (e.g., rewrite, return)
un-: meaning "not" or "opposite of" (e.g., unhappy, unfair)
pre-: meaning "before" (e.g., preview, prehistoric)
dis-: meaning "not" or "opposite of" (e.g., dislike, disappear)
mis-: meaning "wrong" or "badly" (e.g., misunderstand, misbehave)
Study Guide
Here are some tips for studying prefixes:
Learn the meanings of common prefixes listed above.
Practice identifying prefixes in different words.
Use a dictionary or online resources to look up the meanings of words with prefixes.
Create flashcards to test your knowledge of prefixes and their meanings.
Challenge yourself to use words with prefixes in sentences to reinforce your understanding.
Students conduct research on issues and interests by generating ideas and questions, and by posing problems. They gather, evaluate, and synthesize data from a variety of sources (e.g., print and nonprint texts, artifacts, people) to communicate their discoveries in ways that suit their purpose and audience. (NCTE)