English·Vocabulary·conceptual
Word Families and Root Words
Explore word families based on common root words, understanding how words are related in form and meaning through shared roots, prefixes and suffixes (e.g., solve → solution, solver, dissolve, insoluble)
Suggested ages 7–9
Learning journey
Your child is learning how language changes depending on who they're speaking to and the situation, while exploring how words are connected through shared roots and parts.
Evidence of understanding
- Generate at least 4 words in a word family from a given root (e.g., from 'play': player, playful, replay, playground)
- Explain how members of a word family are connected in meaning (e.g., 'solve, solution, dissolve all relate to finding answers or breaking apart')
- Use knowledge of a word family to predict the meaning of an unfamiliar member (e.g., knowing 'act' helps understand 'actor', 'action', 'react')
Assessment prompt
If Word Families and Root Words knows the word "cycle," can they work out what related words like "recycle," "bicycle," or "cyclist" mean by thinking about the shared root?
Standards alignment
L.3.4cUS · ccss-ela
L.3.4c
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · 3
Eng.App2.Y3.Word.3GB · uk-nc-2013
Word families
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · Key Stage 2