SORT WORDS BY SHARED GREEK OR LATIN ROOTS

  • Greek and Latin Roots: Many English words are derived from Greek and Latin roots. Understanding these roots can help students decipher unfamiliar words and enhance their vocabulary.

  1. Bio (life)
    • Examples: Biology, Biography, Biome
  2. Geo (earth)
    • Examples: Geography, Geology, Geometry
  3. Hydro (water)
    • Examples: Hydrate, Hydroplane, Hydropower
  4. Chron (time)
    • Examples: Chronology, Chronicle, Synchronize
  5. Therm (heat)
    • Examples: Thermometer, Thermostat, Thermal

  1. Aqua (water)
    • Examples: Aquarium, Aquatic, Aqueduct
  2. Dict (say, speak)
    • Examples: Dictate, Dictionary, Predict
  3. Spec (see, look)
    • Examples: Spectator, Inspect, Spectacle
  4. Port (carry)
    • Examples: Transport, Portable, Import
  5. Scrib/Scrip (write)
    • Examples: Scribble, Manuscript, Describe

  1. Identify the Root: Students should identify the root in each word.
    • Example: In the word “biology,” the root is “bio,” meaning life.
  2. Group Words by Roots: Group words that share the same root.
    • Example: Group words like “biology,” “biography,” and “biome” together under the root “bio.”

  • Vocabulary Expansion: Helps students understand and remember new words.
  • Improved Reading Comprehension: Aids in understanding the meaning of unfamiliar words in context.
  • Enhanced Spelling Skills: Knowing roots can improve spelling accuracy.

  1. Bio: Biology, Biodegradable, Biohazard
  2. Geo: Geology, Geometry, Geothermal
  3. Hydro: Hydroelectric, Hydrology, Hydrant
  4. Chron: Chronograph, Chronic, Anachronism
  5. Therm: Thermodynamic, Thermos, Hypothermia

Understanding Greek and Latin roots is a powerful tool for expanding vocabulary, improving reading comprehension, and enhancing overall language skills.

let’s practice!