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

Key Notes :

Introduction to Roots:

Learning Greek and Latin roots can help you become a word detective! Many English words are built from these ancient pieces. Knowing the roots helps you decode new words and understand their meanings.

Greek Roots

Let’s start with some common Greek roots:

Root: tele Meaning: Far away Examples: Television: Seeing things from far away. Telephone: Hearing sounds from far away.

Root: photo Meaning: Light Examples: Photograph: A picture made using light. Photosynthesis: Plants using light to make food.

Root: meter Meaning:Measure Examples: Thermometer: Measures temperature. Kilometer: A unit of distance.

Root: graph Meaning: Write Examples: Autograph: To write your own name. Graphology: The study of handwriting.

Latin Roots

Now, let’s explore some Latin roots:

Root: spect Meaning: Look Examples: Inspect: To look at something closely. Spectacles: Eyeglasses to help you see.

Root: port Meaning: Carry Examples: Transport: To carry something from one place to another. Portable: Able to be carried easily.

Root: scrib/script Meaning: Write Examples: Scribble: To write carelessly. Script: The written text of a play or movie.

Root: dict Meaning: Say Examples: Dictate: To say something for someone to write down. Predict: To say what will happen in the future.

Putting it All Together

By learning these roots, you’re building your vocabulary toolbox! When you see a new word, try to break it down into its roots. You might be surprised how much you already know!

1. Practice: Try to find more words that use these roots.
2. Root Challenge: Look up other Greek and Latin roots and their meanings.
3. Read: Pay attention to how words are used in books and articles.

Let’s practice!