ELA Prefixes: 36 Word Cards, 12 Prefixes, Root Words into opposites - Card Game

This loop game (I have...Who has?) was devised by us to support our children develop a greater knowledge of prefixes which turn root words into their opposite/inverse meaning used in everyday language - as well as preparing them for assessments in language. Twelve prefixes are included with the game:

• en
• mis
• in
• il
• un
• dis
• de
• re
• im
• anti
• non
• ir

This game contains 36 playing cards, each with their own root word from the 12 categories and a prefix which can be joined to another playing card.

Playing is easy. Print the words for the game and cut the cards into the 36 playing cards. Each student receives at least one card - ensuring that all the cards are handed out. Select a student to read the root word on their card. The students in the group then look at their cards to see if they have the prefix which could turn the word read aloud into its inverse. For example - if the word "spell" was read aloud, students would be looking on their cards for the prefix "mis". The first to find the correct prefix, must add it to the word to create the new word and shout out "misspell". It is then their turn to read aloud the root word on their card. The game continues until all of the cards have been used. For teachers, school staff or as a home based activity, there is also an answer sheet which links all prefixes with their correct words.

As the students play this game, they will be learning 12 prefixes and 36 words - all of which turn into their negatives - meaning the students actually learn 72 new words. Once the students have played it a few times and understood the rules, swap the cards around. Play again.

You will find that students will start learning and reciting the words when children reveal what is on their cards.

To further develop the game, why not:

• Start with the prefix first and see if the students can add the root word?
• Use the cards as dominoes for a learning centre?
• Time the children with a stopwatch - what is the fastest time the children can complete the loop game in?

Our students love this game, and we know that they understand all 12 different prefixes. They can now apply their knowledge to the meanings of words where the prefixes are used. 

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Best wishes

INSPIReducation