Exposing students to a variety of new words is important for vocabulary acquisition. However, to effectively figure out the meanings of unknown words they encounter, it is crucial to engage them in activities for root words. These activities help students develop strategies to break down a word into its simplest form – the word’s root and affixes. To do this effectively, students must understand what a root word is and its meanings. Participating in root word activities helps students grasp these concepts. This knowledge enhances their ability to decode complex vocabulary.
Why it’s Important
In his article, he outlines the reasons why incorporating Greek and Latin root word instruction is beneficial.
- Most academic words in English are derived from Latin and Greek.
- Most multisyllabic words in English contain a Latin or Greek root.
- A single Latin or Greek word can be found in over 20 English words.
- For Spanish speaking ELL students, teaching Latin roots helps them learn the English language by bridging it their native language.
Implementing Root Word Activities Into the Curriculum
According to Robert J. Marzano and Julia A. Simms of Vocabulary for the Common Core, students should have multiple interactions with a word (in this case a root word) in order to acquire it. This includes, but is not limited to, being able to provide a description of the word, give an example, and construct a picture or symbol of it.
An effective way of getting students to interact with and learn the meaning of roots is to implement a Root of the Week routine. This allows students to apply the knowledge they gain to unknown words and arrive at its meaning.
A simple way to implement a Root of the Week routine is to carve out just a few minutes each day for students to interact with a root by implementing a routine similar to the following:
- Monday: Have students write down the Root of the Week and its meaning.
- Tuesday: Students create an illustration (word art) with the root. Some students may have a difficult time coming up with an illustration on their own. If so, you can direct them in a guided drawing using the board and having them copy it onto their worksheet.
- Wednesday: Students research or think up of two words that include the root word, and write it down on the worksheet under the “Example” subheadings.
- Thursday: Students write a sentence that include the word they came up with yesterday and write it in the space provided. Then, they highlight the root of the word.
- Friday: Students share their sentences with a partner and rate their understanding of the root.
Root Word of the Week Template
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If you’d like to read how implementing a Word of the Week in your classroom can also assist your students with their vocabulary acquisition, click HERE to read about it.
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