Sort words by shared Greek or Latin roots

Key Notes :

Introduction

Many English words are derived from Greek and Latin roots. Understanding these roots can significantly improve your vocabulary and comprehension. This lesson focuses on identifying and sorting words based on their shared Greek or Latin roots.

Identifying Greek and Latin Roots

A root is the basic part of a word that carries the primary meaning. Prefixes and suffixes can be added to a root to modify its meaning. Let’s examine how to identify roots:

• Look for common patterns: Words with similar meanings may share a common root.
• Break down the word: Separate the word into its prefix, root, and suffix (if any).
• Consult a dictionary: Dictionaries often provide the etymology (origin) of words, indicating their Greek or Latin roots.

Examples of Greek and Latin Roots

Latin Roots (look): inspect (look into) spectator (one who looks) respect (look again) (carry): transport (carry across) portable (able to be carried) export (carry out) (say): dictate (say aloud) dictionary (book of words said) predict (say before)

Greek Roots (write): autograph (self-written) biography (life writing) graphic (vividly descriptive) (sound): telephone (distant sound) phonics (study of sounds) symphony (sounding together) (light): photograph (light writing) photosynthesis (light combining) photometer (light measure)

Sorting Words by Shared Roots

Once you’ve identified the roots, you can sort words based on their shared roots. This helps you understand the relationships between words and expand your vocabulary. For example:

Root: (see)

• visible
• video
• vision
• evidence

Tips for Recognizing Common Roots

Here are some tips to help you recognize common Greek and Latin roots:

• Create flashcards: Write the root on one side and its meaning and examples on the other.
• Read widely: Pay attention to words and their origins as you read.
• Use online resources: Many websites and apps are dedicated to vocabulary building and etymology.
• Practice regularly: The more you practice, the easier it will become to recognize roots.

Common Roots to Memorize

Here’s a short list of common roots to help you get started:

• (life)
• (earth)
• (measure)
• (water)
• (land)
• (write)
• Identify the root in the following words: biology, geology, aquarium, terrestrial, inscribe.
• Sort the following words by their shared roots: portable, transport, autograph, biography, export, graphic.
• Define each root identified in Exercise 1 and provide two additional words that use the same root.

Summary

Continue practicing identifying and sorting words by their Greek and Latin roots. Use online resources and dictionaries to expand your knowledge. Consistent practice will improve your vocabulary and reading comprehension skills.

let’s practice!