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Title: Prefix Word Definition Matching Worksheet

Word Skills: Prefixes Language Objective

Determine the meaning
A prefix is a syllable or group of syllables that comes at the of
words from their prefix
beginning of a word and has a special meaning. You can add and
root.
a prefix to another word or root word to change the meaning
of the original word or to create a new word. Look at the list
of common prefixes below and the examples of each one.

Prefix and Meaning Example and Definition

mono = one monorail: train running on one rail
bi = two bicycle: two-wheeled vehicle
tri = three triangle: three-sided figure
poly = many polytheism: belief in many gods
un = not unwelcome: not welcome or wanted
pre = before prehistoric: before recorded history
ex = out export: send out of a country
sub = under subterranean: under the ground
inter = between international: between nations
re = again reread: read again

Now match the columns. Write the letter of the correct definition in the space next to
the word. Use your dictionary if you need to. The first one is done for you.
1. premature b a. speaks two languages
2. monotone b. before the expected time
3. bilingual c. copy or write again
4. exhale d. one company in control of an entire business
5. subtitle e. to remove or pull out
6. interstellar f. not ready
7. polygon g. multiply by three
8. tripod h. many-sided figure
9. unprepared i. translation on a foreign film
10. reorder j. one constant tone of voice
11. preface k. come between
12. monopoly l. not sure
13. extract m. train that travels under the ground
14. biweekly n. breathe out
15. subway o. between the stars
16. triple p. ask for supplies again
17. polygamy q. every two weeks
18. interfere r. three-legged support
19. rewrite s. introduction to a book; foreword
20. uncertain t. many wives for one husband

SKILL OBJECTIVE: Understanding prefixes. Go over the introduction and chart with the class. Complete the first items together. Have
students identify the prefix used, recall its meaning from the chart, put it together with the root word meaning, if possible, and choose the
most likely answer. Remind students to first answer the easier items, then return to the more difficult ones. Extension Activity: Have
students use the twenty words in original sentences. They may use dictionaries to confirm and refine their understanding of the words.
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Source: Judy DeFilippo and Charles Skidmore, Skill Sharpeners 3
© Pearson PHOTOCOPIABLE