Use words as clues to the meanings of Greek and Latin roots

key Notes :

Ever wonder how words get their meanings? Many English words come from ancient Greek and Latin. Understanding roots (the basic parts of words) helps you figure out the meaning of new words! It’s like having a secret code to unlock vocabulary.

Strategy 1: Find the Root

Look for familiar parts in unfamiliar words. Ask yourself: Does this word look like a piece of a word I already know? If so, you might have found a root!

Strategy 2: Use Clues from the Word

The word itself often gives clues! Think about what the whole word means. How might the root contribute to that meaning? Let’s look at some examples:

means ‘far’ or ‘distant’ (Greek)

• Television: Seeing things from far away.
• Telephone: Hearing sounds from far away.
• Telegram: A message from far away.

means ‘carry’ (Latin)

• Transport: To carry something across.
• Portable: Able to be carried.
• Export: To carry goods out of a country.

Strategy 3: Combine Root Knowledge!

Sometimes words have more than one root, or a root and a prefix/suffix. Break the word into its parts and then assemble the meaning.

Example:

• – (prefix) meaning ‘away’
• – (root) meaning ‘carry’
• – (suffix) changes to a noun
• Department – A separate section of a large organization that carries out specific tasks or responsibilities.

Practice Time! 💪

Instructions: For each word, underline the root and then write a definition based on your knowledge of the root and context clues. Audience Visible Biology Telescope Import

Possible Roots and Meanings – life – see – hear – far – carry

Keep Exploring!

This is just the beginning! The more you learn about Greek and Latin roots, the easier it will become to understand new words. Keep a vocabulary journal and write down new words you find, along with their roots and meanings. Happy word hunting! 🔎

Let’s practice!