Using Concept Circles to Analyze Prefixes and Suffixes

Teaching the meanings of prefixes and suffixes is undoubtedly a skill that needs to be scaffolded over multiple grade levels. When I taught second grade, my main goal was to teach students how a prefix or a suffix affected the meaning of a word. We started with five basic prefixes and six basic suffixes. (Check out this affix blog post at my personal blog if you want to view my anchor chart, or read about my favorite way to introduce prefixes and suffixes to younger students.)

Then, with each passing grade level, a few more prefixes and suffixes are added to the list. When I work with 4th and 5th grade students, I like to use concept circles to provide an opportunity for students to analyze affixed words in a more challenging way. (If you're interested in using these with your own upper elementary students, don't miss the free student worksheet version near the end of this blog post!)

Analyzing Prefixes and Suffixes with Concept Circles! This blog post contains a FREE download with 15 common prefixes and suffixes!

This activity involves four steps:

Students read the four words written inside the concept circle, and determine which one does not belong. Students draw a line through the misfit word.
Students determine the meaning of the affix used in the other three words. They write the meaning in the innermost circle.
Students think of another word that uses the featured affix. They replace the word they crossed out in Step #1 with their new word.
In the outside rim, students write the meaning of each word.

Here are a few photos of some concept circles I have done with students:

Click on the image below to download this packet of concept circles for FREE! It contains the three large concept circles picture above, 5 students worksheets like the one pictured below, and blank versions so you can create your own concept circles!

Also, if you're looking for additional resources for teaching about prefixes and/or suffixes, feel free to check out some of the bundles in my TpT store! (Just click on an image to check one out!)